Synonyms of lengthen

lengthen

verb

ˈleŋ(k)-thən 

as in to extend

to make longer

I had to lengthen the handle of the paint roller in order to reach the top of the wall

Synonyms & Similar Words

• extend
• prolong
• increase
• stretch
• elongate
• protract
• expand
• drag (out)
• draw out
• enlarge
• outstretch
• amplify
• attenuate
• thin

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• shorten
• cut
• reduce
• curtail
• decrease
• cut back
• diminish
• lessen
• abridge
• abbreviate
• thicken

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb lengthen contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of lengthen are extend, prolong, and protract. While all these words mean "to draw out or add to so as to increase in length," extend and lengthen imply a drawing out in space or time but extend may also imply increase in width, scope, area, or range.

extend a vacation

extend welfare services

lengthen a skirt

lengthen the workweek

When might prolong be a better fit than lengthen?

While the synonyms prolong and lengthen are close in meaning, prolong suggests chiefly increase in duration especially beyond usual limits.

prolonged illness

How are the words protract and prolong related as synonyms of lengthen?

Protract adds to prolong implications of needlessness, vexation, or indefiniteness.

protracted litigation

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of lengthen

Rain may provide temporary relief, but allergy seasons are expected to keep lengthening in the future. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 20 Mar. 2025

Listen to this article The assumption when San Diego State added transfer Hunter Green to the roster is that Green would join the lengthening line of standout Aztecs punters. —Kirk Kenney, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 Mar. 2025

My typical email both starts and ends with expressions of gratitude, not to lengthen the email, but to strengthen the relationship. —Jay Sullivan, Forbes, 24 Mar. 2025

All-Star left fielder Jurickson Profar, whom the Braves signed in free agency, lengthens their lineup even further. —Jim Bowden, The Athletic, 24 Mar. 2025