instigate
verb (used with object)
to cause by incitement; foment.
had been instigating
-
past perfect progressiveof instigate.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.
Alice had never known for what reason she was entranced and did not now know she had been instigating intelligence to produce a book upon mesmeric influence.
From Professor Huskins by Lettie M. Cummings
For a long time Cetchwayo had been instigating rebellion and preparing for war.
From South Africa and the Transvaal War, Vol. 1 (of 6) From the Foundation of Cape Colony to the Boer Ultimatum of 9th Oct. 1899 by Louis Creswicke
