lengthen
verb
length·en
ˈleŋ(k)-thən 
ˈlen(t)-
lengthened; lengthening
ˈleŋ(k)th-niŋ,
ˈlen(t)th-;
ˈleŋ(k)-thə-
ˈlen(t)-
: to make longer
: to grow longer
Examples of lengthen in a Sentence
The days lengthened with the approach of spring.
Proper care will lengthen the life of the engine.
lengthen a pair of trousers
Recent Examples on the Web
For Carpenter, the dress was lengthened to incorporate an elegant and dramatic train.
—
Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 2 Mar. 2025
Their normal top-flight shot-distance average is from 15 metres but against Liverpool, that lengthens to 17.6m, which reduces the likelihood of scoring.
—Chris Waugh, The Athletic, 26 Feb. 2025
Some residents argue the change would lengthen travel times for school commutes from downtown San Mateo.
Colin Madere and Seema Patel, who both regularly use the lanes, are worried about the possible changes.
—Ryan MacAsero, The Mercury News, 21 Feb. 2025
The Illini lengthened the lead to 31-15 with a 12-2 run, highlighted by Jakučionis’ beautiful drive and free throw to complete a three-point play and Will Riley’s 3-pointer.
—Colleen Kane, Chicago Tribune, 16 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for lengthen
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Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 2 Mar. 2025
Their normal top-flight shot-distance average is from 15 metres but against Liverpool, that lengthens to 17.6m, which reduces the likelihood of scoring.
—Chris Waugh, The Athletic, 26 Feb. 2025
Some residents argue the change would lengthen travel times for school commutes from downtown San Mateo.
Colin Madere and Seema Patel, who both regularly use the lanes, are worried about the possible changes.
—Ryan MacAsero, The Mercury News, 21 Feb. 2025
The Illini lengthened the lead to 31-15 with a 12-2 run, highlighted by Jakučionis’ beautiful drive and free throw to complete a three-point play and Will Riley’s 3-pointer.
—Colleen Kane, Chicago Tribune, 16 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for lengthen
Cite this Entry
“Lengthen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lengthen. Accessed 13 Mar. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
lengthen
verb
length·en
ˈleŋ(k)-thən
ˈlen(t)-
lengthened; lengthening
ˈleŋ(k)th-(ə-)niŋ
ˈlen(t)th-
: to make or become longer
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