clap
verb (used with object)
to strike the palms of (one's hands) against one another resoundingly, and usually repeatedly, especially to express approval.
had been clapping
-
past perfect progressiveof clap.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.
Willa got caught up in the moment and realized she had been clapping for Eliahna, too.
From New York Times ● Jun. 20, 2022
Where hands had been clapping, now arms were folded across chests.
From New York Times ● Dec. 16, 2016
As Daenerys Targaryen was taking wing, Nurse had been clapping irons round their ankles to make certain they would not attempt escape on their way back to their master.
From "A Dance with Dragons" by George R. R. Martin
