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Definitions

lengthen

[lengk-thuhn, leng-, len-] / ˈlɛŋk θən, ˈlɛŋ-, ˈlɛn- /
VERB
extend
Synonyms
STRONGEST
augment elongate expand prolong
STRONG
amplify continue dilate distend draw increase pad proceed protract reach stretch
WEAK
drag out draw out let out make longer prolongate spin out string out
Antonyms
STRONGEST
abbreviate contract shorten
STRONG
cease compress curtail decrease halt lessen lose reduce stop
WEAK
cut

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The hole had been a source of controversy all week following the decision to lengthen it from 236 to 273 yards.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 21, 2026

"We know that being able to lengthen internally is less painful and a better experience overall," Nick Peterson, a consultant orthopaedic surgeon at Alder Hey said.

From BBC • Feb. 17, 2026

The results also align with clinical observations that fully blocking sensory nerves can lengthen labor.

From Science Daily • Jan. 13, 2026

It would reduce entries, lengthen queue times and overturn a centuries-old policy, the report concluded.

From Barron's • Jan. 13, 2026

He dragged his leaden feet, begging them to cooperate, but the row of Barbies seemed to lengthen, stretch out for miles.

From "Shooting Kabul" by N. H. Senzai

Vocabulary lists containing lengthen

"The Fox" by Malinda Lo

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