agitate
verb (used with object)
to move or force into violent, irregular action.
had been agitating
-
past perfect progressiveof agitate.past perfect progressive
Used to describe an action that was ongoing continuously in the past up until another past event interrupted it.
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.
De Berk had been agitating for doctors to pay attention to the child’s deteriorating condition.
From Science Magazine ● Jan. 18, 2023
American feminists had been agitating for Afghan women's rights for some time.
From Salon ● Aug. 18, 2021
Despite Rood’s role in the Ukraine drama, officials at the White House had been agitating for his removal for months for other reasons.
From Washington Post ● Feb. 19, 2020
Ducks defenseman Brendan Guhle had been agitating much of the night, almost dropping the gloves with Tom Wilson and tripping up Leipsic in various incidents.
From Washington Times ● Nov. 19, 2019
Brissot, in his journal, The French Patriot, summed up in clear and concise terms the consequences of the events which for five days had been agitating the city.
From The Sword of Honor, volumes 1 & 2 or The Foundation of the French Republic, A Tale of The French Revolution by Eug?ne Sue
