Synonyms of lengthening

lengthening 1 of 2

noun

as in extension

the act of making longer

a lengthening of the school year is favored by many of the parents in the school district

Synonyms & Similar Words

• extension
• stretching
• prolongation
• elongation
• prolonging
• drawing out

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• shortening
• curtailment
• abbreviation
• cutback
• abridgment

lengthening

2 of 2

verb

present participle of lengthen

as in stretching

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

• stretching
• extending
• increasing
• prolonging
• elongating
• protracting
• expanding
• dragging (out)
• drawing out
• enlarging
• outstretching
• amplifying
• thinning
• attenuating

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• shortening
• cutting
• reducing
• decreasing
• curtailing
• diminishing
• cutting back
• lessening
• abridging
• abbreviating
• thickening

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of lengthening

Noun

The lengthening of the 18-hole course could exclude even more golfers. — New York Times, 26 June 2026

The solstice signifies the start of winter and also heralds the incremental lengthening of days, symbolizing hope and renewal in many cultures. — Tiffany Acosta, AZCentral.com, 19 Dec. 2025

Instead, gently encourage the lengthening of your muscles. — Gerard Hartmann, Outside, 3 Nov. 2025

The researchers also searched for molecular signs of a process called alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT), a telomere-extending mechanism that doesn’t rely on the usual enzyme, telomerase. — New Atlas, 2 Oct. 2025

Verb

And among those areas that could face a lengthening drought is the Pacific Northwest because of the way the jet stream moves during El Nino. — Dana Taylor, USA Today, 10 Aug. 2026

The Philadelphia Phillies entered the trade deadline widely expected to pursue a significant upgrade, with much of the speculation centered on adding a right-handed outfielder capable of lengthening the lineup beyond the infield staples. — Peter Chawaga, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026

Most formulas offer the same benefits as the very best mascaras—increasing volume and density, lengthening and separating lashes, etc—and deliver results just as effectively. — Ariana Yaptangco, Glamour, 3 Aug. 2026

Then Golden State took control down the stretch, lengthening the lead early and scoring 29 points in the fourth to ensure a comfortable final five minutes. — Christian Babcock, Mercury News, 3 Aug. 2026

The high waist creates a leg-lengthening effect while the delicate straps and scoop neckline show off more of the shoulders and neck, balancing the longer length. — Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Aug. 2026

The courts also need lengthening because players are hitting the ball harder. — Lev Akabas, Sportico.com, 31 July 2026

The sandals were set on a leg-lengthening, covered stiletto heel measuring four inches. — Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 28 July 2026

Thanks to their leg-lengthening, outfit-elevating magic, flare jeans are a must-have for any wardrobe. — Kaelin Dodge, InStyle, 28 July 2026