yawn
verb (used without object)
to open the mouth somewhat involuntarily with a prolonged, deep inhalation and sighing or heavy exhalation, as from drowsiness or boredom.
have been yawning
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present perfect progressiveof yawn.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.
The young squire, the young parson, who have been yawning under the prose of Dryasdust, find refreshment in the gay prattle of archæological woman.
From Modern Women and What is Said of Them A Reprint of A Series of Articles in the Saturday Review (1868) by Lucia Gilbert Calhoun
"Page and I have been yawning ourselves to death."
From Dave Darrin's Fourth Year at Annapolis by H. Irving (Harrie Irving) Hancock
"How I hate a wet day!" says Luttrell, moodily, for the twentieth time, staring blankly out of the deserted school-room window, where he and Molly have been yawning, moping for the last half-hour.
From Molly Bawn by Margaret Wolfe Hamilton
"Pardon me, dear Mrs. Lorraine; I really have been yawning for the last hour," said Vivian, and he moved on.
From Vivian Grey by Benjamin Disraeli, Earl of Beaconsfield
"I have been yawning over a stupid novel all the morning, and shall be very glad of a little fresh air."
From Lady Audley's Secret by M. E. (Mary Elizabeth) Braddon
