lengthy

adjective

ˈleŋ(k)-thē How to pronounce lengthy (audio)
ˈlen(t)-
lengthier; lengthiest
Synonyms of lengthynext
1
: protracted excessively : overlong
2
: extended, long
lengthily
ˈleŋ(k)-thə-lē How to pronounce lengthy (audio)
ˈlen(t)-
adverb
lengthiness
ˈleŋ(k)-thē-nəs How to pronounce lengthy (audio)
ˈlen(t)-
noun

Synonyms of lengthy

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Examples of lengthy in a Sentence

The process is both lengthy and costly. a series of lengthy delays Lengthier trips require more planning.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Selma Blair’s team has released a lengthy statement regarding the actor’s recent arrest following an incident while aboard a flight. — Tracy Brown, Los Angeles Times, 17 Oct. 2026 During the trial, Solberg's father, Bobby Solberg, delivered an emotional victim impact statement criticizing Pollis for putting the families through the lengthy proceedings. — Michael Sinkewicz, FOXNews.com, 16 Oct. 2026 The tea offerings were, of course, listed on the lengthy inventory. — Juliana Ukiomogbe, Architectural Digest, 16 Oct. 2026 For instance, applicants from countries such as China and India (registration required) may face lengthier waits due to backlog risks and high demand. — Jill Jones, Forbes.com, 16 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for lengthy

Word History

First Known Use

1689, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of lengthy was in 1689

Browse Nearby Words

lengthwise
lengthy
Lengua
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lengthy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lengthy. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

lengthy

adjective
ˈleŋ(k)-thē How to pronounce lengthy (audio)
ˈlen(t)-
lengthier; lengthiest
: very long
lengthily
-thə-lē How to pronounce lengthy (audio)
adverb
lengthiness
-thē-nəs How to pronounce lengthy (audio)
noun
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