protracted

[proh-trak-tid, pruh‐]

adjective

1. drawn out or lengthened in time; extended in duration.

   a protracted and bloody war.

protracted

/ prəˈtræktɪd /

adjective

1. extended or lengthened in time; prolonged

   a protracted legal battle

Other Word Forms

• protractedness noun
• protractedly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of protracted¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; protract ( def. ) + -ed ² ( def. )

Example Sentences

"This campaign alone will not bring Russia to its knees, but is definitely increasing the pain of the protracted conflict."

From BBC

However, a protracted shutdown could lead to delays in new project grants or permits being issued.

From Los Angeles Times

Eddie Howe's Newcastle had held a long-standing interest in Trafford and it is understood the player was "super excited" about the prospect of joining the Magpies, but talks over a fee became protracted.

From BBC

During that time, she also found herself in an abusive relationship, the end of which triggered a protracted period of poor mental health.

From BBC

Witchcraft has also featured prominently in conversations over the protracted dispute between the government and the family of the late President Edgar Lungu over his funeral.

From BBC

Related Words

• continual 
• continuing www.thesaurus.com
• continuous 
• enduring 
• lingering www.thesaurus.com
• persistent 
• recurrent 
• sustained