close
verb (used with object)
to put (something) in a position to obstruct an entrance, opening, etc.; shut.
have been closing
-
present perfect progressiveof close.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.
But open model developers have been closing the gap, led by companies such as Mistral.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 18, 2026
“Paper mills in Europe have been closing down,” notes Michael Field, European equity strategist at Morningstar.
From Barron's ● Jan. 15, 2026
Bank branches across the UK have been closing down in their hundreds in recent years, making it more difficult to access cash and banking services.
From BBC ● Dec. 1, 2023
Stores in San Francisco have been closing their doors as they try to cut down on real estate space in the face of declining customer visits, occupancy and sales.
From Reuters ● Jun. 16, 2023
As he did this, however, he might have been closing the tomb upon all he loved—his face was so sad.
From At Large by E. W. (Ernest William) Hornung
