had been heartening

• past perfect progressive

  past perfect progressive

  Used to describe an action that was ongoing continuously in the past up until another past event interrupted it.

  of hearten.
  hearten

  verb (used with object)

  to give courage or confidence to; cheer.

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

had been heartening

Although the pupils remain desperately upset, she said their talks had been "heartening" and "brought happiness in a tragic situation".

From BBC ● Sep. 13, 2022

And when it did not come the thought that maybe it was the last of its kind had been heartening.

From Star Born by Andre Norton

Related Words

• animate
• arouse
• assure
• buoy
• cheer
• comfort
• embolden
• encourage
• energize
• inspire
• reassure
• strengthen