prolong

verb

Etymology: Either a back-formation from prolongation, or from Old French prolonguer or porloignier, from Latin prōlongō, from prō + longō. Doublet of purloin.

1. To extend in space or length.
2. To lengthen in time; to extend the duration of.

   “Complaining prolongs one’s pain.”

   “The departure was not unduly prolonged. In the road Mr. Love and the driver favoured the company with a brief chanty running. “Got it?—No, I ain't, 'old on,—Got it? Got it?—No, 'old on sir.””

3. To put off to a distant time; to postpone.

   “The government shouldn't prolong deciding on this issue any further.”

4. To become longer; lengthen.