Synonyms of prolong

prolong

verb

prə-ˈlȯŋ 

as in to lengthen

to make longer

would like to prolong our vacation by any means possible

Synonyms & Similar Words

• lengthen
• extend
• increase
• stretch
• protract
• elongate
• drag (out)
• draw out
• expand
• enlarge
• outstretch
• amplify
• attenuate
• thin

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• shorten
• curtail
• cut
• reduce
• cut back
• decrease
• diminish
• lessen
• abridge
• abbreviate
• thicken

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb prolong contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of prolong are extend, lengthen, and protract. While all these words mean "to draw out or add to so as to increase in length," prolong suggests chiefly increase in duration especially beyond usual limits.

prolonged illness

How do extend and lengthen relate to one another, in the sense of prolong?

Both extend and lengthen imply a drawing out in space or time but extend may also imply increase in width, scope, area, or range.

extend a vacation

extend welfare services

lengthen a skirt

lengthen the workweek

How are the words protract and prolong related?

Protract adds to prolong implications of needlessness, vexation, or indefiniteness.

protracted litigation

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of prolong

Washing your robe is important from both a hygiene standpoint, as well as for prolonging its lifespan. — Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 26 Sep. 2026

Ionis Pharma said an experimental therapy for a rare form of ALS prolonged survival and slowed the progression of the disease in a Phase 3 clinical trial. — Elaine Chen, STAT, 22 Sep. 2026

Rich, moist, well-draining Masterwort Masterwort (Astrantia major) is often deadheaded throughout the summer to prolong its blooming. — Marie Iannotti, The Spruce, 22 Sep. 2026

Watts continued to praise the improvements in the Hollywood industry that have prolonged women’s careers. — Zac Ntim, Deadline, 19 Sep. 2026