penetrate
verb (used with object)
to pierce or pass into or through.
penetrated
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past participleof penetrate.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
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past tense formof penetrate.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
penetrateverb (used with object)to pierce or pass into or through.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The Scottish arm of Operation Venetic has resulted in more than 60 arrests since 2020 when the National Crime Agency penetrated a secret communications system used by criminals.
From BBC ● Aug. 26, 2026
Her eyes penetrated mine as I waited for a loud Tibetan gong to sound.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 7, 2026
In one fell swoop, The Beatles penetrated two more demographics.
From Salon ● Aug. 5, 2026
His apparatus ultimately penetrated U.S. intelligence and diplomatic circles through some of Cuba’s most successful espionage operations.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 24, 2026
She sat holding it in her hand, while the music penetrated her whole being like an effulgence, wanning and brightening the dark places of her soul.
From "The Awakening" by Kate Chopin
