Elongated: meaning, definitions and examples

Best used to describe something that has been stretched or made longer, especially for physical objects or body parts.

• The snake had an elongated body.
• The artist painted an elongated figure.

Appropriate for situations where something is made to last longer in time or space, often related to deadlines, offers, or plans.

• The meeting was extended by an hour.
• She extended her hand in greeting.

Used when talking about increasing the length of something, especially time or physical items like ropes or clothing.

• They lengthened the skirt to make it more modest.
• The days lengthened as summer approached.

Often refers to making something last longer than expected, typically with a negative connotation, such as discomfort or suffering.

• The cold weather prolonged our stay.
• The patient's illness was prolonged.

Use this word when describing something that has been made longer than usual, especially in a way that distorts its original shape. Often used to describe objects or figures.

• The metal rod was elongated due to the high temperatures.
• His face looked elongated in the funhouse mirror.

Apply this word when referring to the act of making something longer in duration or physical length. Often used in planning and time management contexts.

• We need to lengthen the meeting by another hour.
• They decided to lengthen the skirt by adding fabric.

Commonly used when describing both physical extension and metaphorical extension, such as stretching a budget or time. It often implies pulling something to its limits.

• You should stretch before exercising to avoid injuries.
• We need to stretch our resources to get through the month.

This word fits situations where extending time is the focus, especially when trying to delay an end or outcome. It can sometimes carry a negative connotation of unnecessarily extending something.

• They tried to prolong the negotiations to get a better deal.
• The illness prolonged his suffering.