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.
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
Technology companies have been spending billions of dollars investing in data centers and infrastructure needed to support the race to advance AI.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 23, 2026
Households have been spending at a healthy clip for more than five years, and there’s little sign they are about to slow down.
From MarketWatch ● Apr. 28, 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
“I have been spending less time at Chandresh’s residence,” he says, handing her the card.
From "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern
