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Showing results for lengthen.
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 golf industry’s response has been to lengthen courses.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

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

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

Seated in the branches of the elm tree at the north wall of the Abbey, Cluny watched the shadows lengthen.

From "Redwall" by Brian Jacques

Vocabulary lists containing lengthen

"The Fox" by Malinda Lo

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