elapse
verb (used without object)
(of time) to slip or pass by.
had elapsed
-
past perfectof elapse.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.
By the time the agents shoved me into that unmarked SUV, three minutes and 30 seconds had elapsed.
From Slate ● Jan. 23, 2026
Because he was absent for more than eight minutes, he was not allowed to bat until the same amount of time had elapsed, as per the rules.
From Barron's ● Nov. 22, 2025
Cronin didn’t insert three of his regular starters until nearly five minutes had elapsed, Skyy Clark, Tyler Bilodeau and Xavier Booker finally entering the game.
From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 19, 2025
The penalty was imposed because Alonso's car had been touched by the rear jack before the full time duration had elapsed, in contravention of F1 rules.
From BBC ● Mar. 4, 2024
Hardly a full day had elapsed since Holly had come crawling in delirium to the foot of Watership Down.
From "Watership Down: A Novel" by Richard Adams
