chafe
verb (used with object)
to wear or abrade by rubbing.
were 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.
Stephanie Garcia Richard, a Democrat elected last year as state land commissioner, acknowledged that people in southeastern New Mexico were chafing at her efforts to tighten control over the oil industry.
From New York Times ● Oct. 27, 2019
The decision to bet on quarterback Russell Wilson rather than accede to the whispers that players were chafing against perceived favoritism toward him has proven to be the right one.
From Seattle Times ● Nov. 26, 2018
After seven years as a Soviet satellite state, many in Hungary were chafing at the restrictions imposed by the communist government.
From BBC ● Oct. 25, 2016
Also, locals were chafing at the increased presence of the Iraqi army, which is unpopular because most of the soldiers are from other parts of the country.
From Time ● Oct. 8, 2010
Long before dark they were chafing in the unaccustomed bindings of stockings and ill-fitting boots, reminding her that they had done too much.
From "Lyddie" by Katherine Paterson
