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Meaning of protract
The primary meaning of the word "protract" is to extend or prolong something, such as a process, a period of time, or an activity, often in a way that is intentional or deliberate.
Etymology of protract
The word "protract" comes from the Latin words "pro" meaning "forward" or "outward" and "trahere" meaning "to draw" or "to pull".
The word has been used in English since the 15th century to describe the act of extending or prolonging something, and has evolved over time to include a range of related meanings and connotations.
Synonyms
prolong
extend
delay
postpone
draw out
stretch out
lengthen
elongate
prologue
drag out
spin out
slow down
hinder
obstruct
impede
retard
suspend
stay
defer
put off
stall
temporize
tarry
linger
loiter
dawdle
dilly-dally
procrastinate
stall
hesitate
pause
interrupt
suspend
discontinue
break off
cease
stop
halt
delay
remit
reprieve
respite
wait
tarry
pause
hesitate
falter
slow
slacken
abate
diminish
reduce
decrease
lessen
shorten
curtail
cut short
abbreviate
Definitions
- To extend or prolong something, such as a process, a period of time, or an activity, often in a way that is intentional or deliberate.
- To draw out or lengthen something, such as a discussion, a meeting, or a project, often to an excessive or unnecessary degree.
- To delay or postpone something, such as a decision, an action, or an event, often in a way that is intentional or strategic.
Usage Examples
- The company has decided to protract the deadline for the project in order to allow for more time to complete the necessary tasks.
- The lawyer tried to protract the trial by introducing new evidence and requesting additional time to prepare.
- The teacher attempted to protract the lesson by asking more questions and encouraging discussion, but the students were getting restless.