chafe
verb (used with object)
to wear or abrade by rubbing.
was chafing
-
past progressiveof chafe.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.
In the mid-1990s, Frontiere was chafing at the inability of Los Angeles to build a new stadium, She was looking for partners to bankroll a move to St. Louis.
From Washington Times ● Jun. 4, 2023
By the mid ’60s, though, he was chafing at playing the youthful antihero in film after film.
From Seattle Times ● Sep. 6, 2021
His decision to marry a commoner — shocking at the time — certainly suggested that he was chafing at the strictures of his position.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 8, 2016
She was chafing against the amber she’s trapped in.
From New York Times ● Dec. 7, 2011
Dany's tight silver collar was chafing against her throat.
From "A Clash of Kings" by George R.R. Martin
