descend
verb (used without object)
to go or pass from a higher to a lower place; move or come down.
had descended
-
past perfectof descend.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.
Instead, in Maugham’s estimation, he was “this laborious, honest, matter-of-fact man” who painted—when at his best—“as though the grace of God had descended upon him.”
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 24, 2026
Then again on Wednesday, just 48 hours prior, they had descended on the lot, also at 1 p.m., and taken another three people.
From Slate ● Oct. 27, 2025
Diplomats and official delegations had descended on the Red Sea resort town in recent days to negotiate a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal.
From Barron's ● Oct. 12, 2025
Since federal agents had descended on California, apprehending gardeners, day laborers and car wash workers en masse, residents in immigrant-heavy pockets like this one had mostly stayed inside.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 17, 2025
She, who had descended with such joy and pain, had begun her upward climb—upward, with her baby, on the steep, steep side of the mountain.
From "Go Tell It on the Mountain" by James Baldwin
