protracted
UK: /prəˈtræktɪd/ | US: /proʊˈtræktɪd/
adj. lasting longer than expected or usual; prolonged
vt. (past tense of protract) to extend in time or space; draw out
The word "protract" originates from Latin protrahere (pro- "forward" + trahere "to pull, draw"). The morpheme tract appears in many English words (e.g., "traction," "extract"), consistently conveying the idea of pulling or drawing. The suffix -ed marks the past participle form, turning the verb into an adjective meaning "drawn out." The term evolved from literal physical extension (e.g., protracting a limb) to metaphorical temporal extension (e.g., a protracted debate).
The negotiations became protracted due to unresolved disputes.
She protracted her stay abroad to complete the research.
His illness led to a protracted recovery period.
The legal battle was protracted over five years.
Avoid protracted discussions by setting clear deadlines.