disperse
verb (used with object)
to drive or send off in various directions; scatter.
had dispersed
-
past perfectof disperse.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.
Rainmaker said its cloud seeding in Texas had dispersed before the storm and that at best a single mission can create a fraction of an inch of rain.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 4, 2025
The force said the protesters had dispersed by about 15:30 BST.
From BBC ● Aug. 9, 2025
The rest had dispersed, distrustful and worried that union organizers were sent by immigration authorities.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 23, 2023
The four band members had dispersed, and one, Don Short, guitarist and vocalist, declined to participate.
From Seattle Times ● Aug. 19, 2023
Most of the passengers had dispersed by now, but a few lingered with the driver on the sidewalk beside the empty bus.
From "The 57 Bus" by Dashka Slater
