combine
verb (used with object)
to bring into or join in a close union or whole; unite.
had been combining
-
past perfect progressiveof combine.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.
In Sheffield he had been combining shifts as a registrar with running an online clothing company selling kaftan dresses but had dissolved it three months before arriving in Syria.
From BBC ● May 24, 2016
Blenke had sorrowfully and virtuously repelled that insinuation the moment she brought it to his attention, but circumstances had been combining to make her uneasy about her paragon.
From A Soldier's Trial An Episode of the Canteen Crusade by Charles King
Kennedy had been combining things spiritual and aqueous at his wash-stand.
From The Honorable Peter Stirling and What People Thought of Him by Paul Leicester Ford
Meanwhile, Tito’s quick mind had been combining ideas with lightning-like rapidity.
From Romola by George Eliot
But a medley of powers, for diverse reasons and interests, had been combining themselves for the salvation of Poland, or at least for driving back the Swede to his own side of the Baltic.
From The Life of John Milton, Volume 5 (of 7), 1654-1660 by David Masson
