roll
verb (used without object)
to move along a surface by revolving or turning over and over, as a ball or a wheel.
was rolling
-
past progressiveof roll.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.
I was rolling endlessly in a dark wave that would not stop; my feet could not tell sand from sky.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 26, 2026
While hosting “Scientific American Frontiers,” Alda noticed some scientists he interviewed would go into lecture mode when the camera was rolling, but were more engaging in natural conversation.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 4, 2026
“It was rolling up your sleeves,” Costa recalled.
From Salon ● Apr. 22, 2026
Flight tracking platform FlightRadar24 said the plane "was rolling down the runway when it struck" the rescue vehicle as it crossed its path.
From Barron's ● Mar. 23, 2026
I couldn’t help it; in a few minutes I was rolling on the floor with laughter.
From "Cold Sassy Tree" by Olive Ann Burns
