wander
verb (used without object)
to ramble without a definite purpose or objective; roam, rove, or stray.
had been wandering
-
past perfect progressiveof wander.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.
He said he had been wandering up to the pub with a friend for "one last drink", when he heard an "almighty explosion".
From BBC β Apr. 16, 2025
Bodycam footage shows that Gladney had been wandering on a residential street in the county’s Gum Springs neighborhood.
From Seattle Times β Mar. 25, 2022
“Heavy coat on a hot day, shorts, red burnt skin. He had been wandering in the desert near Cabazon and Beaumont.”
From Los Angeles Times β Nov. 28, 2021
The news overwhelmed Jarecki, who added: “Bob is dangerous and had been wandering around for a very long time without ever being held accountable.”
From Washington Post β Sep. 18, 2021
Spectators, people who had been wandering the streets because of the earthquake, were starting to gather.
From "The Lightning Thief" by Rick Riordan
