pare
verb (used with object)
to cut off the outer coating, layer, or part of.
had been paring
-
past perfect progressiveof pare.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.
After a months-long rise, Brent crude in September hit its highest level since late 2022, although prices had been paring some of those gains this month.
From Reuters ● Oct. 9, 2023
"We had been paring back in Credit Suisse, had an internal negative outlook for a little over a year."
From Reuters ● Mar. 22, 2023
The hiring freeze came at the same time Amazon had been paring back some projects, including robotics experiments, a virtual travel experience, a video device for kids and personal delivery robots.
From Seattle Times ● Nov. 15, 2022
He had been paring potatoes for dinner and what was left of his right hand held the shank of his potato knife.
From The San Francisco calamity by earthquake and fire by Charles Morris
"I shall open it very quietly," said Mr. Subtle, putting into his pocket his penknife, with which he had been paring his nails, while Mr. Quicksilver had been talking very fast.
From Ten Thousand a-Year. Volume 1. by Samuel Warren
