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were chafing
  • past progressive of chafe.

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.

Yet governors were chafing against coronavirus-related restrictions and itching to take steps to restore a sense of normalcy.

From New York Times • Feb. 26, 2021

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