bolt
noun
a movable bar or rod that when slid into a socket fastens a door, gate, etc.
was bolting
-
past progressiveof bolt.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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.
Fresh off leading Duke to its first outright ACC championship in more than half a century, Mensah was bolting for the exit—and, he hoped, toward an even bigger payday from another program.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jan. 21, 2026
One instant, the St George full-back was bolting upfield, arms pumping, surging towards open space.
From BBC ● Feb. 2, 2023
His paws hit the pavement, and within seconds, he was bolting down the block.
From Washington Post ● Nov. 27, 2020
Weeks before she was bolting at the sight of a zoom, Sukari began refusing meals.
From New York Times ● Jul. 3, 2014
As I was bolting the door, I noticed Miss Kenton waiting for me, and said: 'I trust you had a pleasant evening, Miss Kenton.'
From "The Remains of the Day" by Kazuo Ishiguro
