Meaning & Definition of word "Protracted"

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    Protracted

    /prəˈtraktɪd/

    adjective:

    • 1. lasting for a long time or longer than expected or usual.
      • Example: The negotiation process was protracted, taking several months to reach an agreement.
    • 2. extended in duration.
      • Example: The protracted drought led to severe water shortages in the region.
    • 3. drawn out or prolonged.
      • Example: After a protracted debate, the committee finally settled on a course of action.
    • 4. characterized by being excessively lengthy.
      • Example: Many people found the protracted speech tedious and difficult to sit through.

    Etymology

    From Latin 'protractus', past participle of 'protrarre', meaning 'to draw out'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    protracted argument:

    A debate or disagreement that lasts for a long time.

    protracted negotiations:

    Negotiations that are drawn out over an extensive period.

    Related Words

    protract:

    To draw out over a period of time.

    protraction:

    The act of protracting; extension in time.

    Slang Meanings of protracted

    Meaning: Stretched out for too long.

    Example Sentence: That meeting was so protracted, we could have held a mini-conference.

    Meaning: Dragging something unnecessarily.

    Example Sentence: He always protracts the process; it feels like he wants us to suffer.