prolong

American  

[pruh-lawng, -long] / prəˈlɔŋ, -ˈlɒŋ /

verb (used with object)

1. to lengthen out in time; extend the duration of; cause to continue longer.

   to prolong one's stay abroad.

   Antonyms:

   abbreviate

2. to make longer in spatial extent.

   to prolong a line.

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prolong British  

/ prəˈlɒŋ, ˌprəʊlɒŋˈɡeɪʃən /

verb

1. (tr) to lengthen in duration or space; extend

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Related Words

See lengthen.

Other Word Forms

• prolongable adjective
• prolongableness noun
• prolongably adverb
• prolongation noun
• prolonger noun
• prolongment noun
• unprolongable adjective

Etymology

Origin of prolong

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English prolongen, from Late Latin prōlongāre “to lengthen,” equivalent to prō- “forward, forth” + long(us) “long” + -ā- theme vowel + -re infinitive ending; pro- ¹, long ¹

Example Sentences

JPMorgan expects gold to bottom above $4,200-$4,400 and rally, especially with prolonged energy disruption and Fed easing.

From Barron's

However, higher energy prices will remain a drag on the region and prolonged market disruption pose a key risk, economists Louis Kuijs and Vishrut Rana said in a report.

From The Wall Street Journal

Both these jobs entailed prolonged, ego-deflating battles; both ended in professional debacle.

From The Wall Street Journal

As it could be a "prolonged crisis" in terms of the price and economic impacts, the government would carefully consider its position and monitor the situation.

From BBC

But as one of the oldest US federal judges -- born in 1933 -- some are unsure he is best suited to preside over what could be a prolonged trial for Maduro on drug trafficking charges.

From Barron's

Related Words

• continue
• delay
• drag out
• lengthen
• perpetuate
• protract
• stall