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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

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

From Barron's • Jan. 13, 2026

Will Jacks was the most surprising inclusion in England's 16-man squad, seemingly chosen with the pink-ball Test in mind - lengthen the batting and bowl some off-breaks if required.

From BBC • Dec. 11, 2025

They were careless of me, leaving me to roam freely like a pet goat I had no one to mend my torn clothes or to lengthen my skirts as I grew.

From "Ophelia" by Lisa Klein

Vocabulary lists containing lengthen

"The Fox" by Malinda Lo

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