untie
verb (used with object)
to loose or unfasten (anything tied); let or set loose by undoing a knot.
was untying
-
past progressiveof untie.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.
“Dwight was untying laces for four or five years,” he said, “but nobody said anything! They’re just like, ‘Look how much Dwight enjoys the game!’
From The New Yorker ● Oct. 13, 2016
He was untying the empty sheath from my ankle.
From "Kindred" by Octavia Butler
Mama Bellini was untying a bundle of Herald Tribunes when she heard the chirping.
From "The Cricket in Times Square" by George Selden
Ruth Gray dropped the paper of candy she was untying, and turned very pale.
From Little Prudy by Sophie May
But as he was untying it to make it faster they fell all three into the water, and were well washed for their pains.
From The Book of Noodles Stories of Simpletons; or, Fools and Their Follies by William Alexander Clouston
