steal
verb (used with object)
to take (the property of another or others) without permission or right, especially secretly or by force.
had been stealing
-
past perfect progressiveof steal.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.
But when Jono finally came home he found his contract had been terminated and the family faced a backlash from residents who believed he had been stealing.
From BBC ● Dec. 4, 2025
Soon, she would learn that Avennati had been stealing from her.
From Slate ● Mar. 15, 2024
Girardi, a famous and well-connected trial attorney, managed to avoid discipline for decades, despite a blizzard of complaints that he had been stealing from clients, while lavishing State Bar executives with gifts.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 22, 2023
The McMichaels told police they suspected Arbery had been stealing from a nearby house under construction.
From Seattle Times ● Aug. 7, 2022
For weeks, it seemed, he had been stealing hours of sleep during the day, a few at night.
From "Zeitoun" by Dave Eggers
