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

How many words does Ellie have now, not counting like the past tense of a verb or something?

From Salon

Prosecutors noted that his use of past tense was suspicious.

From Los Angeles Times

They began speaking of him in the past tense.

From Los Angeles Times

The problem is that a large share of the rock audience continues to think of the Beach Boys in the past tense.

From Los Angeles Times

I’ve never liked the past tense — grieved — as that implies a conclusion to something that changes us, alters our course and continues to define us.

From Los Angeles Times