lengthen — to make something longer or to become longer
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to make something longer or to become longer
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈleŋkθən/
Example Sentences
- My grandmother tried to lengthen my pants, but now I look like I'm wearing a dress!
- Exercise and healthy eating can help lengthen your lifespan.
- The teacher decided to lengthen the exam time after seeing everyone's confused faces.
lengthen
VERB[/ˈleŋkθən/]
to make something longer or to become longer
to make something longer or to become longer
Though storms threaten, she lengthens muscles to strengthen!
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Old English 'length' (the quality of being long) combined with the verb-forming suffix '-en'. The word 'length' itself derives from Proto-Germanic roots related to 'long'.
Breakdown
length (noun: the quality of being long) + -en (verb-forming suffix meaning 'to make' or 'to become') = lengthen (to make or become longer)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My grandmother tried to lengthen my pants, but now I look like I'm wearing a dress!”
“Exercise and healthy eating can help lengthen your lifespan.”
“The teacher decided to lengthen the exam time after seeing everyone's confused faces.”
“As winter approaches, the nights lengthen and days become shorter.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related
Want to master 19,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.