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had been winnowing

  • past perfect progressive
    of winnow.
    winnow
    verb (used with object)
    to free (grain) from the lighter particles of chaff, dirt, etc., especially by throwing it into the air and allowing the wind or a forced current of air to blow away impurities.

Example Sentences

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The farmer had been winnowing his corn outside, and the narrow lane was ankle-deep with chaff.

From Two Summers in Guyenne by Edward Harrison Barker