ripen
verb (used with or without object)
to make or become ripe.
had been ripening
-
past perfect progressiveof ripen.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.
One night I ignored the butcher’s feast path and went off-road so I could try some sirloin that had been ripening downstairs for 138 days.
From New York Times ● Nov. 14, 2017
Once in office, he swiftly began executing a broad diplomatic design that had been ripening in his mind for years.
From Time Magazine Archive
Overthrow of the Monarchy.—During many months a plot had been ripening in Republican circles looking toward the deposition of the king, the overthrow of the monarchy, and the proclamation of a republic.
From The Governments of Europe by Frederic Austin Ogg
He knew that Carrington's scheme had been ripening day by day; and he knew also that within a few hours the final blow was to be struck.
From Run to Earth A Novel by M. E. (Mary Elizabeth) Braddon
Meanwhile the events of the eventful year 1688 had been ripening fast to their destined issue.
From William the Third by H. D. (Henry Duff) Traill
