spend
verb (used with object)
to pay out, disburse, or expend; dispose of (money, wealth, resources, etc.).
have been spending
-
present perfect progressiveof spend.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.
For years now, hotels have been spending more and more on signature fragrances to woo and hook guests.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 3, 2026
Major tech companies in the US have been spending billions to build out AI infrastructure and develop increasingly more advanced AI models.
From Barron's ● Jul. 22, 2026
Hyperscalers are companies that have been spending the most heavily on building infrastructure to support the development of generative artificial intelligence technology.
From MarketWatch ● Feb. 26, 2026
Smithfield and other meatpackers have been spending billions of dollars to automate the grueling, sometimes dangerous work required in meat-processing facilities.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Feb. 16, 2026
She and Jupe have been spending a good bit of time together, so I’m sure I could ask Jupe if she knows what Rae’s deal is.
From "Odd One Out" by Nic Stone
