past tense

Also past

[past tens]

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of past tense¹

First recorded in 1650–60

Example Sentences

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

"Elon and I had a great relationship," Trump said on Thursday – a comment notable for its use of the past tense.

From BBC

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