spend
verb (used with object)
to pay out, disburse, or expend; dispose of (money, wealth, resources, etc.).
has been spending
-
present perfect progressiveof spend (3rd person singular).present perfect progressive
Used to describe an action that began in the past, has continued continuously, and is still in progress.
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.
It is believed she has been spending her time out of the public eye at an Alpine chalet in Verbier, Switzerland, since leaving Royal Lodge.
From BBC ● Aug. 29, 2026
The Hangzhou-based company has been spending heavily on the technology as it jostles with rivals for dominance in the rapidly growing AI sector.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 24, 2026
However, in recent years, the “Ransom Canyon” star has been spending far more time at his other dwelling: an off-grid “doomsday prepper” cabin in the Minnesota.
From MarketWatch ● Jul. 1, 2026
Since the expiration of pandemic aid, the school system has been spending $1 billion to $2 billion a year more than it is taking in, officials said.
From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 15, 2026
I haven’t seen Patrick in a few weeks except in shop class because he has been spending most of his time with Brad, so thinking about presents is a good way to think about him.
From "The Perks of Being a Wallflower" by Stephen Chbosky
