# lengthen

/ˈɫɛŋkθən/ (US) · /lˈɛŋθən/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/lengthen
Updated: 2026-05-25

## Definition

to make something longer or to become longer. You use this when talking about physical things like roads or time periods.

For teachers: to increase the linear dimension of something; to extend in space or time. Often used in the context of physical expansion or the elongation of a period.

## Examples

- The sun will lengthen the shadows as it sets.
- The architect decided to lengthen the hallway to provide more space for the new office furniture.
- As the season progressed, the days began to lengthen, eventually reaching their peak duration just before the summer solstice.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.