protract
verb (used with object)
to draw out or lengthen, especially in time; extend the duration of; prolong.
were protracting
-
past progressiveof protract.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
While they were protracting the pleasures of their repast, a messenger came galloping into their camp saying that Mr. Fitzpatrick was within a few miles of them, with an ample supply of provisions.
From Christopher Carson by John S. C. (John Stevens Cabot) Abbott
Upon this they despatched ambassadors into the enemy's camp; and whilst these were protracting negotiations during the night, the Thebans, with their wives and children, evacuated the city.
From Myths and Legends of Ancient Greece and Rome by E.M. Berens
