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.

In 2020, SARS-CoV-2 was a novel virus that had been circulating for weeks before it became a global concern.

From MarketWatch • May 7, 2026

She said the strain that had been detected had been circulating for five years.

From BBC • Mar. 19, 2026

The findings also show that the mosaic incorporates decorative motifs that had been circulating around the Mediterranean for centuries.

From Science Daily • Feb. 13, 2026

Reports had been circulating for days that the agency embroiled in an often brutal immigration crackdown in the United States could be involved in US security measures for the February 6-22 Games in northern Italy.

From Barron's • Jan. 27, 2026

The rumors of the queen’s witchery had been circulating long enough, and the young prince was so beloved of the people, that it took very little for them to see the obvious truth.

From "A Monster Calls" by Patrick Ness