Something, usually something unpleasant, that is protracted lasts a long time, especially longer than usual or longer than you hoped. After protracted negotiations, Ogden got the deal he wanted The struggle would be bitter and protracted. 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 (past participle of protrahere )
relatively long in duration; tediously protracted; "a drawn-out argument"; "an extended discussion"; "a lengthy visit from her mother-in-law"; "a prolonged and bitter struggle"; "protracted negotiations"