populate
verb (used with object)
to inhabit; live in; be the inhabitants of.
populated
-
past participleof populate.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
-
past tense formof populate.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
populateverb (used with object)to inhabit; live in; be the inhabitants of.
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.
Early on, Sakurai exploits the inherent absurdity of telling a story populated by so many ludicrous characters.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 16, 2026
"Our reforms support the ambition for high-quality 5G coverage across all populated areas by 2030 and ensures landowners are treated fairly when negotiating with mobile operators."
From BBC ● Oct. 15, 2026
The government, based in the city of Aden, controls much of the country's south and east -- a region that is larger but much less populated.
From Barron's ● Oct. 3, 2026
Dutch Bros is on a tear, adding new locations across the country—and is exploring adding new walk-up-only windows to appeal to foot traffic in densely populated areas, WSJ Leadership Institute’s Kristin Broughton reports.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 2, 2026
I looked around to realize that the school had become populated while I’d been sitting there, absentminded.
From "Twilight" by Stephenie Meyer
