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

Bacteria can linger on the towel and spread, potentially leading to your sickness being prolonged. —Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 June 2025

Now, Towns and the Knicks will have another chance to prolong their season and pursue the franchise’s first NBA title since 1973. —Tim Casey, Forbes.com, 30 May 2025

Combining two cancer drugs has been found to prolong the lifespan of mice—and may help humans age better. —Ian Randall, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 May 2025

Risks include hematomas, infections, prolonged swelling and facial nerve injury. —Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 27 May 2025