Synonyms of prolong

prolong

verb

prə-ˈlȯŋ 

as in to lengthen

to make longer

would like to prolong our vacation by any means possible

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb prolong contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of prolong are extend, lengthen, and protract. While all these words mean "to draw out or add to so as to increase in length," prolong suggests chiefly increase in duration especially beyond usual limits.

prolonged illness

How do extend and lengthen relate to one another, in the sense of prolong?

Both 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

How are the words protract and prolong related?

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

protracted litigation

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of prolong

Now’s the time to stock up for next year or prolong patio season a little longer. —Julia Fields, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Oct. 2025

Some coastal areas could see several inches of rain, gusty winds, beach erosion, and prolonged coastal flooding, regardless of tropical development. —Anna Skinner, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 Oct. 2025

After another prolonged back and forth, United granted an exception and covered the chair, according to Lazoen. —Erika Edwards, NBC news, 4 Oct. 2025

If a shutdown is prolonged, SNAP funding could run out, potentially causing a delay or pause in benefits. —Marina Johnson, Louisville Courier Journal, 2 Oct. 2025