lengthy

adjective

ˈleŋ(k)-thē How to pronounce lengthy (audio)
ˈlen(t)-
lengthier; lengthiest
1
: protracted excessively : overlong
2
lengthily adverb
lengthiness noun

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.
The list of spices and aromatics in this jerk paste is lengthy, but the method is simple. Lynda Balslev, The Mercury News, 28 Jan. 2025 In exchange, Israel released 121 Palestinian prisoners sentenced to life imprisonment for deadly terror attacks and an additional 79 prisoners serving lengthy sentences. Efrat Lachter, Fox News, 26 Jan. 2025 Chief Justice John Roberts, known for his rhetorical prowess, has long lamented that the media must summarize and translate the court’s lengthy opinions for the public. Jill Barton, The Conversation, 24 Jan. 2025 Prosecutors also underscore the public disruption Mizuhara inflicted on Ohtani to support their push for a lengthy prison sentence. Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 24 Jan. 2025 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

Dictionary Entries Near lengthy

Cite this Entry

“Lengthy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lengthy. Accessed 31 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

lengthy

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

More from Merriam-Webster on lengthy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!