First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
prolong
verb pro·long \prə-ˈlȯŋ\
: to make (something) last or continue for a longer time
Full Definition of PROLONG
transitive verb
1
: to lengthen in time : continue
2
: to lengthen in extent, scope, or range
— pro·lon·ga·tion \(ˌ)prō-ˌlȯŋ-ˈgā-shən, prə-\ noun
— pro·long·er \prə-ˈlȯŋ-ər\ noun
See prolong defined for English-language learners
See prolong defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of PROLONG
Middle English, from Middle French prolonguer, from Late Latin prolongare, from Latin pro- forward + longus long
Related to PROLONG
- Synonyms
- drag (out), draw out, elongate, lengthen, outstretch, extend, protract, stretch
Synonym Discussion of PROLONG
extend, lengthen, prolong, protract mean to draw out or add to so as to increase in length. 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>. prolong suggests chiefly increase in duration especially beyond usual limits <prolonged illness>. protract adds to prolong implications of needlessness, vexation, or indefiniteness <protracted litigation>.
PROLONG Defined for Kids
prolong
verb pro·long \prə-ˈlȯŋ\
pro·longedpro·long·ing
Definition of PROLONG for Kids
: to make longer than usual or expected <Medicines prolonged his life.>
Learn More About PROLONG
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: prolongablePrevious Word in the Dictionary: prologueAll Words Near: prolong
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up prolong? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).