bask
verb (used without object)
to lie in or be exposed to a pleasant warmth.
had been basking
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past perfect progressiveof bask.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.
Infantino had been basking in the afterglow of the largest ever World Cup involving 48 teams until his plans divided the sport.
From Barron's ● Aug. 11, 2026
Infantino had been basking in the warm afterglow of a highly successful World Cup -- the largest ever with 48 teams and co-hosted by three countries, Canada, Mexico and the US.
From Barron's ● Aug. 5, 2026
African artists had been basking in a global spotlight, but the pandemic slowed their momentum.
From New York Times ● Sep. 6, 2022
Up until the Santa Anita Handicap the redhead had been basking in the attention, boasting of his horse’s infallibility, and entertaining the reporters with his quick wit.
From "Seabiscuit: An American Legend" by Laura Hillenbrand
We were making our way into it, when, just before us, another kangaroo started up from the sunny spot where it had been basking, and looked round at us, doubtful, apparently, which direction to take.
From Twice Lost by C.J. Stanilard
