Synonyms of prolong

prolong

verb

prə-ˈlȯŋ 

as in to lengthen

to make longer

would like to prolong our vacation by any means possible

Synonyms & Similar Words

• lengthen
• extend
• increase
• stretch
• protract
• elongate
• drag (out)
• draw out
• expand
• enlarge
• outstretch
• amplify
• attenuate
• thin

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• shorten
• curtail
• cut
• reduce
• cut back
• decrease
• diminish
• lessen
• abridge
• abbreviate
• thicken

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb prolong contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of prolong are extend, lengthen, and protract. While all these words mean "to draw out or add to so as to increase in length," prolong suggests chiefly increase in duration especially beyond usual limits.

prolonged illness

How do extend and lengthen relate to one another, in the sense of prolong?

Both extend and lengthen imply a drawing out in space or time but extend may also imply increase in width, scope, area, or range.

extend a vacation

extend welfare services

lengthen a skirt

lengthen the workweek

How are the words protract and prolong related?

Protract adds to prolong implications of needlessness, vexation, or indefiniteness.

protracted litigation

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of prolong

Kosiba says wind and heavy rain can cut a fall foliage season short, while the idyllic combination of warm, sunny days and cool nights can significantly prolong it. —Rachel Treisman, NPR, 22 Sep. 2025

The lips, always framed by liner, follow the same color scheme; a palette that prolongs the essence of summer, yet adapted for fall. —María Munsuri, Glamour, 21 Sep. 2025

The debate over requiring a prescription, though outside the powers of the committee, was prolonged as several members strongly believed that requiring a prescription was creating a barrier to access. —Joseph Choi, The Hill, 19 Sep. 2025

Essential safety tips for heavy rain Heavy rainfall may lead to flooding if prolonged or if there is excessive runoff. —Southern California Weather Report, Oc Register, 19 Sep. 2025