trail
verb (used with object)
to drag or let drag along the ground or other surface; draw or drag along behind.
had trailed
-
past perfectof trail.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.
Many investors probably chose value or emerging-market funds because they had trailed large U.S. growth stocks so much in recent years.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 7, 2026
It was the first time City had trailed in the Champions League this season and the response was far from emphatic.
From Barron's ● Nov. 25, 2025
Reinhart had the tying goal — his fifth of the season — with three about minutes left in regulation after the Panthers had trailed 2-0 midway through the third.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 28, 2025
Shares of Comerica had trailed the industry in recent years.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 6, 2025
On that night, eight weeks ago, Bo had trailed alongside him with sleepy eyes.
From "The Thief Lord" by Cornelia Funke
