devastate
verb (used with object)
to lay waste; render desolate.
had been devastating
-
past perfect progressiveof devastate.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.
The family of the victim C2 said the original sentences had been "devastating".
From BBC ● Jul. 2, 2026
The 74-year-old died days later in hospital, with her family telling the court her death had been devastating but they did not want Roberts jailed.
From BBC ● Apr. 7, 2026
In her latest statement, the singer added that the fat-shaming allegations had "haunted" her for the last two years, adding that it had been "devastating to suffer through this in silence".
From BBC ● Dec. 16, 2025
Henderson said although her own diagnosis had been "devastating", it had also been "empowering" and she had partnered with the charity to raise awareness.
From BBC ● Jul. 23, 2025
The loss had been devastating to both Yuko and Kathy.
From "Zeitoun" by Dave Eggers
