Prolonged
prəˈlɒŋd
Definitions
Continuing for a long time or longer than expected.
prəˈlɒŋd
The meeting was prolonged due to unexpected discussions.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're waiting in line for ice cream, but the wait is taking FOREVER. If it takes way longer than you thought, that's a prolonged wait!
👶 For kids: When something takes a really, really long time.
More Examples
Prolonged exposure to the cold can lead to frostbite.
The prolonged drought caused significant damage to the crops.
How It's Used
"Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause skin damage."
"The prolonged negotiations eventually led to a trade agreement."
Idioms & expressions
prolong the agony
To make an unpleasant situation last longer than necessary, often intentionally.
"He knew he should break up with her, but he was prolonging the agony by avoiding the conversation."
From Middle English *prolongen*, from Old French *prolonger* (“to prolong”), from Late Latin *prolongāre* (“to lengthen, extend”), from Latin *pro-* (“forth, forward”) + *longus* (“long”).
The word 'prolonged' has been used since the 15th century to describe something that is extended in time or space. It was frequently used in legal and medical contexts.
Memory tip
Think of a 'long' distance that extends forward (pro-) over time.