distribute
verb (used with object)
to divide and give out in shares; deal out; allot.
had been distributing
-
past perfect progressiveof distribute.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.
Luna Blanca, a Ceuta-based charity providing food and social assistance to vulnerable people, said it had been distributing between 3,500 and 4,000 meals a day since the influx began.
From Barron's ● Aug. 6, 2026
The city had been distributing free bottled water.
From Seattle Times ● Jul. 27, 2023
Siyabonga Hlatshwayo told the eNCA news site that the Red Cross had been distributing hot meals, mattresses and blankets to those affected and he appealed to the public for more donations.
From BBC ● Jul. 16, 2023
Outside a yard where, a day earlier, relief workers had been distributing sacks of donated wheat to hungry townspeople, people hoisted aloft a fighter in stonewashed jeans and a leather grenade belt.
From New York Times ● Jun. 29, 2021
At last, by an accident, he discovered the secret—Cecilia had been distributing her gifts in his name!
From Willis the Pilot by Paul Adrien
