count
verb (used with object)
to check over (the separate units or groups of a collection) one by one to determine the total number; add up; enumerate.
was counting
-
past progressiveof count.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.
The medical bills have eaten into the savings he was counting on for retirement.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 7, 2026
Jones wasn't concerned that her gender was counting against her.
From BBC ● Apr. 25, 2026
In Daniel’s telling, he was counting the money in Louis’ car when he got a text from his girlfriend that read, “Help me.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 24, 2026
The Kremlin did not immediately confirm any truce, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked Trump and said he was counting on Washington to secure the pause in attacks.
From Barron's ● Jan. 30, 2026
He was counting two he’d seen on the other side.
From "Newjack: Guarding Sing Sing" by Ted Conover
