lengthy

1 of 2

adjective

ˈleŋ(k)-thē 

ˈlen(t)-

lengthier; lengthiest

1

: protracted excessively : overlong

2

: extended, long

lengthily

ˈleŋ(k)-thə-lē 

ˈlen(t)-

adverb

lengthiness

ˈleŋ(k)-thē-nəs 

ˈlen(t)-

noun

lengthiness

2 of 2

noun

length·​i·​ness -thēnə̇s 

-thin-

plural -es

: the quality or state of being lengthy : prolixity

Synonyms of lengthy

Adjective

• long
• elongate

Examples of lengthy in a Sentence

Adjective

The process is both lengthy and costly.

a series of lengthy delays

Lengthier trips require more planning.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

The material allows water to enter the electrolyte layer, helping the electrode reach a stable measurement potential without lengthy pre-adjustment. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 10 Oct. 2026

At the same time, Hollister was also engaged in a lengthy courtroom battle with Perry and the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles over the rights to another property, a Los Feliz convent the singer hoped to turn into a private home. — Mickey Rapkin, HollywoodReporter, 10 Oct. 2026

Heading outside, the lengthy foredeck is home to a lounge and Jacuzzi, the sundeck is dotted with sunbeds, and the stern is equipped with a dual-mode transom that combines a garage, a submersible platform, and a beach club into one single system. — Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 9 Oct. 2026

The lengthy closure remains pending amid a legal battle, but the building is currently dark. — News Desk, Artforum, 9 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1689, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

lengthy

adjective

ˈleŋ(k)-thē 

ˈlen(t)-

lengthier; lengthiest

: very long

lengthily

-thə-lē 

adverb

lengthiness

-thē-nəs 

noun