Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for lengthen. Search instead for mengtet.
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.

Eccentric exercise focuses on the phase when muscles lengthen rather than shorten.

From Science Daily • May 1, 2026

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

"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

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

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!