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Lengthen: meaning, definitions and examples

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lengthen

 

[ ˈlɛŋθən ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

to make something longer

To lengthen means to make something longer in distance or time. It can refer to physically extending the length of something, such as a piece of clothing or a road. It can also be used in a figurative sense to indicate an increase in duration or size. Lengthening often involves stretching or expanding the original form.

Synonyms

elongate, extend, prolong, stretch

Examples of usage

  • The tailor lengthened the sleeves of the jacket.
  • The days are lengthening as we move into spring.
  • She decided to lengthen her stay in the city.
  • The company plans to lengthen the deadline for the project.
  • The road construction project will lengthen the commute for many drivers.

Translations

Translations of the word "lengthen" in other languages:

🇵🇹 alongar

🇮🇳 लंबा करना

🇩🇪 verlängern

🇮🇩 memperpanjang

🇺🇦 подовжувати

🇵🇱 wydłużyć

🇯🇵 伸ばす (nobasu)

🇫🇷 allonger

🇪🇸 alargar

🇹🇷 uzatmak

🇰🇷 길게 하다 (gilge hada)

🇸🇦 إطالة (itāla)

🇨🇿 prodloužit

🇸🇰 predĺžiť

🇨🇳 延长 (yáncháng)

🇸🇮 podaljšati

🇮🇸 lengja

🇰🇿 ұзарту

🇬🇪 გადაგრძელება (gadagrdzeleba)

🇦🇿 uzatmaq

🇲🇽 alargar

Etymology

The word 'lengthen' originated in Middle English from the combination of the words 'length' and the suffix '-en', which is used to form verbs. The concept of increasing the length of something has been a fundamental aspect of human development, from clothing and architecture to timekeeping. The ability to lengthen or extend has been essential for progress and adaptation in various fields.

See also: length, lengthened, lengthening, lengthily, lengthiness, lengthy.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,648, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.