What does the term "protract" mean?

The term "protract" is defined as to draw out or lengthen in space or time. This meaning is often used in various contexts, such as extending the duration of an event or elongating a physical object. When something is protracted, it implies that it takes longer than expected or desired, typically resulting in prolongation of a process or situation.

In contrast, the other options suggest meanings that are not aligned with the definition of "protract." For instance, the first option relates to shortening or reducing, which directly opposes the concept of lengthening. The second option describes prophesying or predicting, which does not relate to the idea of extending. The fourth option involves summarizing quickly, implying brevity rather than elongation. Therefore, the correct answer is clearly the one that captures the essence of lengthening in both time and space.