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Definitions

protracted

[proh-trak-tid, pruh‐] / proʊˈtræk tɪd, prə‐ /
ADJECTIVE
long
Synonyms
STRONGEST
continued drawn-out enduring extensive lengthy lingering sustained
STRONG
dragging elongate elongated enlarged expanded lasting lengthened prolonged running stretch stretched stretching towering
WEAK
deep distant far-off far-reaching faraway gangling great high lanky lofty long-drawn-out longish outstretched overlong rangy remote spread-out spun out stringy tall
ADJECTIVE
chronic
Synonyms
STRONGEST
continual continuing continuous enduring lingering persistent recurrent sustained
STRONG
abiding confirmed fixed ingrained lasting obstinate persisting prolonged recurring rooted settled
WEAK
ceaseless constant deep-rooted deep-seated ever-present habitual inborn inbred incurable ineradicable inveterate lifelong long-lived long-standing perennial routine stubborn tenacious unabating unmitigated unyielding usual
Antonyms
STRONGEST
ceasing halting infrequent intermittent interrupted
STRONG
ephemeral fleeting indefinite transient

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

A protracted Iran conflict and continued high oil prices could mean the sun setting soon on gold’s rally, according to a strategist at UBS.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 30, 2026

It has been nothing but a headache for passengers, but some analysts believe Clear stands to benefit from a protracted government shutdown and the mayhem that comes with it.

From Barron's • Mar. 26, 2026

Or are both sides settling in for a costly, protracted war that will keep energy prices high, affecting the whole world right through the summer?

From BBC • Mar. 25, 2026

A protracted war could weaken both the Middle East and Thailand patient flows for the hospital chain operator, the analyst says.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 18, 2026

I almost wondered they did not check their songs and whispers to catch the suspended revelation; but they would have had to wait many minutes—so long was the silence protracted.

From "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë

Vocabulary lists containing protracted

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

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This Week in Words: August 10–16, 2019

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And Then There Were None

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!