threaten
verb (used with object)
to utter a threat against; menace.
had threatened
-
past perfectof threaten.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.
That has led to higher prices for jet fuel, just a few months after global airlines, U.S. carriers included, averted a major fuel crisis that had threatened their all-important summer travel season.
From MarketWatch ● Sep. 22, 2026
Matheus Cunha's deflected last-minute equaliser spared Manchester United more misery after Lisandro Martinez's own goal had threatened to give Fulham victory at Craven Cottage.
From BBC ● Sep. 20, 2026
Two other Republicans who had threatened Blanche’s nomination, Sens. John Cornyn of Texas and Thom Tillis of North Carolina, ultimately voted to confirm him after extracting concessions.
From Salon ● Aug. 8, 2026
European soccer’s governing body, which had threatened a World Cup boycott and seen several members formally withdraw their letters of endorsement for Infantino, didn’t immediately comment on FIFA’s announcement.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 5, 2026
Snape handed Dumbledore a small glass bottle of completely clear liquid: the Veritaserum with which he had threatened Harry in class.
From "Harry Potter And The Goblet Of Fire" by J. K. Rowling
