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

There are no such timing limitations on Al-Hashimi, and the ending that now seems like a way to end her story line could easily be transformed into a way to prolong it. —Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 17 Apr. 2026

If your power goes out, a generator may prolong your services if your Cox service location still has power. —Cox Communications, Oc Register, 17 Apr. 2026

Much to the anguish and upset of their adult children, Kevin and Joy, Mavis and Dennis Eccleston decided to end their lives together when 81-year-old Dennis received a terminal cancer diagnosis and declined treatment to avoid prolonging his suffering. —Max Goldbart, Deadline, 13 Apr. 2026

When bail is granted, ICE appeals, prolonging detention for 90 more days. —Seth Klamann, Denver Post, 12 Apr. 2026