prolong
UK: /prəˈlɒŋ/ | US: /prəˈlɔːŋ/
vt. to extend the duration of something
vt. to lengthen in time or space
prolong = pro<forward> + long<length>
- pro<forward>: From Latin pro-, meaning "forward" or "ahead."
- long<length>: From Latin longus, meaning "long" in duration or physical extent.
Etymology Origin:
The word prolong originates from Latin prolongare, combining pro- (forward) and longus (long). It entered Middle English via Old French prolonger, retaining its core meaning of extending time or space. The logic is straightforward: to "push forward in length," whether temporally (e.g., prolonging a meeting) or spatially (e.g., prolonging a line).
The doctor advised rest to prolong her recovery.
They decided to prolong the vacation by another week.
The treaty was prolonged after negotiations.
Artificial preservatives can prolong food shelf life.
His speech prolonged the ceremony unnecessarily.