Used to describe an action that was ongoing continuously in the past up until another past event interrupted it.
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Ramoba had been drumming for acid jazz and big band outfits when a friend suggested he audition for BLK JKS.
From The Guardian ● Jun. 3, 2010
All the time Mr. Grex had been speaking, he had been drumming upon the table with his forefinger.
From Mr. Grex of Monte Carlo by Will Grefé
But Dick, who had been drumming his fingers idly against the window, turned with a suggestion of his own.
From The Silent Places by Stewart Edward White
The Earl looked up swiftly and checked his fingers, which had been drumming on the table.
From The Blue Pavilions by Sir Arthur Thomas Quiller-Couch
"It is so hard to explain," she replied, after a moment's pause, during which she had been drumming her little forefinger on the table.
From Hilda Wade, a Woman with Tenacity of Purpose by Grant Allen
