Synonyms of lengthen

lengthen

verb

ˈleŋ(k)-thən 

as in to extend

to make longer

I had to lengthen the handle of the paint roller in order to reach the top of the wall

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb lengthen contrast with its synonyms?

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

When might prolong be a better fit than lengthen?

While the synonyms prolong and lengthen are close in meaning, prolong suggests chiefly increase in duration especially beyond usual limits.

prolonged illness

How are the words protract and prolong related as synonyms of lengthen?

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

protracted litigation

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of lengthen

Think a Wi-Fi enabled security camera, Kindle e-reader, an Anker power bank to lengthen your phone’s battery life, and more—no coupon needed. —Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 30 June 2025

For corporate treasury desks, this means hedging windows must lengthen and broaden. —Guney Yildiz, Forbes.com, 24 June 2025

Others accused Robert of using artificial intelligence to tweak and lengthen Lewis’ book to create her own version. —Kalhan Rosenblatt, NBC news, 21 June 2025

For a guy whose everyday role seemed in jeopardy at times last season and early this year, this has been a resounding statement of value — one that lengthens the Mets’ lineup considerably. —Tim Britton, New York Times, 10 June 2025