protracted — lasting for a long time or longer than expected or usual
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: lasting for a long time or longer than expected or usual
Pronunciation (IPA): /prəˈtræktɪd/
Example Sentences
- My diet has become a protracted battle between me and chocolate cake.
- The protracted meeting made everyone wish they had brought sleeping bags.
- The company's protracted financial difficulties led to massive layoffs.
protracted
ADJECTIVE[/prəˈtræktɪd/]
lasting for a long time or longer than expected or usual
The protracted trial dragged on for months as the jury grew visibly exhausted.
First attracted to the deal, then contracted in protracted negotiations!
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'protractus', the past participle of 'protrahere', meaning 'to draw forth' or 'to lengthen'. The word combines the prefix 'pro-' (forward) with 'trahere' (to draw or pull).
Breakdown
pro- (forward) + tract (draw, pull) + -ed (past participle/adjective suffix) = protracted (drawn out, extended in time)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My diet has become a protracted battle between me and chocolate cake.”
“The protracted meeting made everyone wish they had brought sleeping bags.”
“The company's protracted financial difficulties led to massive layoffs.”
“After a protracted search, they finally found their lost cat hiding in the garage.”
📚Related Words
Want to master 27,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.