Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
In December, Forbes estimated that Trump Jr.’s net worth had rocketed from roughly $50 million to $300 million since the election.
From Salon ● Jun. 11, 2026
As of Wednesday’s close, Clear Secure’s stock had rocketed 62.8% since the company provided before the Feb. 25 open an upbeat earnings outlook, citing increasing demand for its secure-identity services.
From MarketWatch ● Mar. 27, 2026
The two had rocketed as much as 30 percent Monday to a peak of nearly $120.
From Barron's ● Mar. 12, 2026
The duo known as Milli Vanilli had rocketed to fame, going from obscure dancers in Munich to dominate the pop music scene.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 30, 2026
The volunteer had rocketed himself across the emptiness between the two again-separated ships.
From Pariah Planet by Murray Leinster
