unfold
verb (used with object)
to bring out of a folded state; spread or open out.
had been unfolding
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past perfect progressiveof unfold.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 instrumental track behind one of Los Angeles’ biggest songs played over the Intuit Dome’s best-that-money-can-buy sound system late in the opening half — the perfect tune for what had been unfolding.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 19, 2025
Before Katy grabbed the spotlight, Hill said, most of the cultural battles had been unfolding in North Texas, which is more conservative.
From Salon ● Dec. 30, 2023
The trial had been unfolding in a big ceremonial courtroom on the third floor.
From Seattle Times ● Dec. 14, 2023
The story, which had been unfolding in a booklike manner, collapses into something like play acting.
From Washington Post ● Feb. 13, 2021
The red hand of the waiter pouring the Chartreuse, green like a stormy sunset, into small glasses before them broke into the vivid imaginings that had been unfolding in their talk through dinner.
From One Man's Initiation—1917 by John Dos Passos
