contend
verb (used without object)
to struggle in opposition.
had contended
-
past perfectof contend.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
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.
Westgate’s family had contended his ill-health was caused by fumes.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 22, 2025
In advance of his trial, Girardi’s defense attorneys had contended that their client was mentally incompetent and suffered from a form of dementia.
From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 20, 2024
Mr. Guessford had contended that the law enforcement agency had violated his constitutional rights, violating his right to peaceful protest by seizing and tearing up his sign.
From Washington Times ● Sep. 5, 2023
In a filing with the Federal Labor Relations Authority, NIH officials had contended that many potential members, including postdocs and graduate students, weren’t “employees” with a right to unionize.
From Science Magazine ● Aug. 16, 2023
In the very first years of his reign Shalmanesar had contended against the prince Arami of Ararat, and against the land of Nairi, between the Eastern Tigris and the Greater Zab.
From The History of Antiquity, Vol. II (of VI) by Max Duncker
