deepen
verb (used with or without object)
had been deepening
-
past perfect progressiveof deepen.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.
Before Milei took power, Argentina -- a major lithium producer -- had been deepening ties with China.
From Barron's ● Oct. 14, 2025
The humorous lines about Welton's eyes had been deepening throughout this interview.
From The Rules of the Game by Stewart Edward White
The strangely mingled emotions that had been deepening within him all this time now blended themselves in one irrepressible wish.
From Sister Dolorosa and Posthumous Fame by James Lane Allen
A suspicion had been deepening in the Candy Man's breast for the last few moments.
From The Little Red Chimney Being the Love Story of a Candy Man by Mary Finley Leonard
The pains and discoloration had commenced two years before his admission, since which time the skin had been deepening in tint.
From Anomalies and Curiosities of Medicine by Walter L. (Walter Lytle) Pyle
