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

Last month, the results of an early-stage trial showed that an mRNA vaccine prolonged survival in eight patients with pancreatic cancer. —Aria Bendix, NBC news, 2 May 2026

Okert walked Ward on five pitches, prolonging the pitching staff’s season-defining propensity. —Chandler Rome, New York Times, 1 May 2026

Bringing it indoors before frost is also recommended to prolong its growth period. —Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 1 May 2026

The administration has warned GOP lawmakers off making changes that could prolong passage. —Lisa Mascaro, Los Angeles Times, 29 Apr. 2026