Prolong

/prəˈlɔŋ/

Meaning & Definition

verb
to extend the duration of something beyond its original or usual length.
The meeting was prolonged by several hours due to the ongoing discussions.
to lengthen in time or space.
They decided to prolong their vacation by a few days.
to cause to continue for a longer time.
The doctor advised against taking medication that could prolong the recovery process.

Etymology

Middle English prolongen, from Latin prolongare 'to lengthen' (pro- 'forth' + longus 'long')

Common Phrases and Expressions

prolong the inevitable
to delay something unpleasant that will eventually happen
prolong the time
to increase the time taken for something
prolong the discussion
to continue a conversation for a longer period than necessary

Related Words

extension
the action of extending something.
duration
the time during which something continues.
elongate
to make something longer.

Slang Meanings

to drag something out unnecessarily
Stop prolonging the issue, just get to the point!
to stall for time
He was just prolonging the exam by asking irrelevant questions.