Pronunciation: [lˈɒŋ ɡˈɒn] (IPA) 
The definition of "long gone" refers to something or someone that has been gone for a significant period of time. In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be written as /lɒŋ ɡɒn/, with the "l" sound being followed by the "ɒŋ" sound (as in the word "song") and the "ɡɒn" sound (as in the word "gone"). It is important to note that the word "long" is pronounced with a short "o" sound, which is also commonly spelled "lon".
"Long gone" is an idiomatic expression commonly used in informal and colloquial language to describe something or someone that is no longer present, available, or relevant. The term itself consists of two words that, when combined, create a context of something being removed or departed for an extended period of time.
When referred to a person, it typically means that the person has been absent or unreachable for a long duration, or that they have left a particular place or situation a considerable time ago. For example, if someone says, "I haven't seen my childhood friend in years. He's long gone," it implies that the friend has been gone for a significant amount of time and may be difficult to locate or reconnect with.
Regarding objects or things, "long gone" suggests that they have been disposed of, lost, or completely disappeared for a prolonged period. It signifies that an item or concept is no longer in existence or available for use. For instance, if someone says, "The old building that used to be here is long gone, replaced by a modern skyscraper," it indicates that the building has been torn down and is no longer present at the location.
In summary, "long gone" is an informal phrase used to convey the absence, unavailability, or irrelevance of something or someone for an extended period. Its usage effectively emphasizes the considerable duration of departure or disappearance.
The phrase "long gone" has its roots in Old English and dates back to the 14th century. The word "long" comes from the Old English word "lang" which meant "long" or "lengthy". The word "gone" also has Old English origins, derived from the word "gan" which meant "to go". Over time, these words merged together, forming the phrase "long gone". It is used to indicate that something or someone has been absent or left for a significant period of time.
