Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English homepage

Date: 1500-1600
Language: Latin
Origin: , past participle of protrahere 'to draw forward'

protracted

 adjective
     
pro‧trac‧ted
used to describe something that continues for a long time, especially if it takes longer than usual, necessary, or expected [= lengthy]
protracted negotiations/discussions/debate etc
the expense of a protracted legal battle
WORD FOCUS: long WORD FOCUS: long
continuing for a long time: lengthy
continuing for much too long: interminable, marathon, endless, long-winded, long-drawn-out, protracted
continuing for a long time and not changing: permanent, lasting, lifelong
when feelings last for a long time: lingering, abiding, enduring, lasting

➔ See also long
Definition from the Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English
Advanced Learner's Dictionary.

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