to make something longer or to become longer, to extend the duration of something

Formal and Informal Expressions of lengthen

In different contexts, you can replace 'lengthen' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'elongate, prolong' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'stretch, extend' is a commonplace synonym.

lengthen: Explore its Definition & Usage

lengthen Definition

1to make something longer or to become longer
2to extend the duration of something

Using lengthen: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "lengthen" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
She lengthened her skirt by adding a piece of fabric.
Example
The days are starting to lengthen as we approach summer.
Example
The coach advised the runner to lengthen her stride.
Example
The company decided to lengthen the deadline for the project.

lengthen Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for lengthen

Antonyms for lengthen

Phrases with lengthen

lengthen one's fuse
to increase one's patience or tolerance level
Example
After practicing meditation, he was able to lengthen his fuse and handle stress better.
lengthen one's odds
to decrease one's chances of success
Example
By taking unnecessary risks, he was actually lengthening his odds of winning the game.
lengthen one's shadow
to stay out late into the evening, causing one's shadow to appear longer
Example
The kids loved to play outside and lengthen their shadows during the summer months.

📌

Summary: lengthen in Brief

To 'lengthen' [ˈleŋkθən] means to make something longer or to become longer, such as extending the duration of something. Examples include 'She lengthened her skirt by adding a piece of fabric.' and 'The company decided to lengthen the deadline for the project.' 'Lengthen' can also be used in phrases like 'lengthen one's fuse,' meaning to increase one's patience, and 'lengthen one's odds,' meaning to decrease one's chances of success.