rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryprotractionProlonging in time
noun

protraction

proh-TRAK-shun/proʊˈtrækʃən/

The act of making something last longer.

The protraction of negotiations leaves both sides frustrated and exhausted.

A tedious meeting drags on while a speaker keeps unrolling an excessively long blank scroll and exhausted attendees slump, unnecessary prolonging.
Etymology
proLatinforward
+tractLatinto draw, pull
+ionLatinaction or process

Drawing something forward or out supplies an image for extending it in time. In this sense, that extension is excessive: an action or process is made to last longer than necessary.

In context

Enhanced Public Domain432:06
the continual protraction of Hope returning back upon the heart often rung bitter drops of despondency
1800s Fiction Audiobook: Mary Shelley - Frankenstein

More examples

  • Neither side wants a costly protraction of the strike.
  • Further revisions risk the unnecessary protraction of the review process.
  • We oppose any protraction of the meeting beyond noon.

Forms

protraction · protractions

protract verb — To make something continue for longer.

protracted adjective — Continuing for longer than is usual.

Similar words

prolongation
A close equivalent that less strongly suggests unwelcome lengthening.
extension
Often names added time granted for a deadline or agreement.
delay
Can postpone a start rather than lengthen an ongoing activity.