past tense

American  

[past tens] / ˈpæst ˈtɛns /

Also past

noun

Grammar.

1. (in English) the simple past.

2. any verb formation or construction used to express an action or state occurring in the past, such as, in English, the past progressive, present perfect, and pluperfect tenses.

3. an instance or form of a specific verb expressing a past action or state.

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Etymology

Origin of past tense

First recorded in 1650–60

Example Sentences

The myth loomed large, but it was past tense -- until now.

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

Analysts were surprised at the unanimous decision of the usually fractured Monetary Policy Committee, and by the statement using the past tense to refer to “disinflation.”

From MarketWatch • Mar. 19, 2026

When we talk about media failures and war, we refer to them in the past tense.

From Salon • Mar. 2, 2026

While it is still difficult for Kumar to refer to his daughter in the past tense, he said Grace was behind his motivation to keep pursuing accountability.

From BBC • Feb. 21, 2026

So, except at the gallows, hung is the correct past tense of hang-.

From "Woe Is I" by Patricia T. O'Conner