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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.

Airport security lines could lengthen as over 11% of TSA officers previously called out when unpaid, with some airports reaching 50%.

From Barron's • Apr. 28, 2026

Days lengthen and the Sun gets stronger, but when cold air moves in from the north, we can be quickly plunged back into wintry weather.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 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

These conditions develop when repeating genetic sequences lengthen beyond normal limits and interfere with healthy cell function.

From Science Daily • Jan. 9, 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

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