Find Antonyms

lengthen Antonyms

Opposite of lengthen

Because the opposite of lengthen shifts with each meaning, the 8 antonyms and opposite words below are separated across 2 exact definitions and ranked by contrast strength.
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• verb (Context 1)

To make or become longer in physical dimension or spatial extent.

Usage Example

"The tailor offered to shorten the sleeves of the jacket so it would fit properly."

Strongest
shorten
Strong
truncate
abbreviate
contract
Weak
bob

• verb (Context 2)

To make or become longer in duration or time.

Usage Example

"As spring approaches, the days gradually shorten and the weather grows warmer."

Strongest
shorten
cut short
curtail
Strong
abridge

Similar words to lengthen

Words similar to lengthen shift depending on context. Common synonyms include:

elongate
prolong
extend
draw out
stretch out
protract
stretch
spin out
See all synonyms of lengthen

• Nearby Words

lender
lending
length
lengthen
lengthily
lengthiness
lengthways

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Antonyms for Lengthen. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/antonyms/lengthen
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