prolonged

adjective

pro·​longed prə-ˈlȯŋd How to pronounce prolonged (audio)
: continuing for a notably long time : extended in duration
a prolonged delay
a prolonged recession
a prolonged absence
a prolonged drought
And in today's competitive situation a prolonged strike can very easily lead to a serious loss of market share which is difficult, if not impossible, to recapture.David Reid
Sometimes the only answer is a prolonged time away from the sport followed by a slow, steady reconditioning program along with physiotherapy of some type …William J. Goldwag
prolongedly adverb
… and Andy demonstrates … the odd talent of coughing in his sleep, coughing prolongedly without waking himself. John Updike

Examples of prolonged in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Systemic and prolonged misogyny are real issues plaguing education. Michael Maguire, Boston Herald, 17 Mar. 2025 Researchers used historical forecasts, reservoir storage and river flow data in determining that better forecasting and release timing, paired with the addition of the new spillway, could reduce the flood risk from prolonged storms, such as the ones in 1986 and 1997 that struck Yuba County. Jake Goodrick, Sacramento Bee, 15 Mar. 2025 Research shows that environmental factors such as prolonged exposure to sunlight can also increase one's risk of cataracts. Daryl Austin, USA TODAY, 15 Mar. 2025 This prolonged screen exposure leads to digital eye strain, which manifests as: • Blurry vision and headaches. Dr Chibuzor Uwadi, Forbes, 14 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for prolonged

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1525, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of prolonged was circa 1525

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Cite this Entry

“Prolonged.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prolonged. Accessed 24 Mar. 2025.

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