sum
noun
the aggregate of two or more numbers, magnitudes, quantities, or particulars as determined by or as if by the mathematical process of addition.
had been summing
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past perfect progressiveof sum.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.
The reply of Wedderburn was pointed and brilliant, and as rabid as if he had been summing up against an ordinary criminal at an ordinary assize.
From Benjamin Franklin; Self-Revealed, Volume II (of 2) A Biographical and Critical Study Based Mainly on his own Writings by Bruce, Wiliam Cabell
He had a large account-book open in front of him, and when Ruth entered he laid down the pen with which he had been summing up his figures.
From The Rebel of the School by Meade, L. T.
She turned to her stout companion, who had been summing up car and chauffeur with careful eyes since Medenham first spoke.
From Cynthia's Chauffeur by Tracy, Louis
All this time the old man had been summing her up, and drawing his own conclusions from her thin figure and haggard face.
From Flames by Hichens, Robert Smythe
