Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
For nearly two decades, Sen. Elizabeth Warren has needled and probed Wall Street at every turn.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 6, 2026
For weeks, Musk has needled the social media company on its own platform, driving down its stock price and alarming employees who live in fear of being attacked by Musk’s legions of online followers.
From Washington Post ● May 18, 2022
But the more I’ve thought about it, the more the use of “washed” to describe part of the life-course of regular humans has needled me.
From Slate ● Jul. 3, 2018
He signed off with "Love as always, John."It isn't the first time in recent weeks that Hempton has needled Ackman.
From Reuters ● Nov. 3, 2015
Ryan has needled Patriots quarterback Tom Brady for bouncing a pitch into the dirt before the Boston Red Sox home opener.
From Washington Times ● Aug. 10, 2015
