close
verb (used with object)
to put (something) in a position to obstruct an entrance, opening, etc.; shut.
were closing
-
past progressiveof close.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 don’t think she wanted to say we were closing for lack of business, but that’s why we’re closing,” Bill explained.
From Slate ● Aug. 14, 2026
U.S. officials said the two sides were closing in on a 60-day deal, which would include a mutual unwinding of blocks in the Strait of Hormuz over the first 30 days.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 29, 2026
On a Tuesday evening in Eagle Rock, used-bookstore owners Jeremy and Debbie Kaplan were closing up for the day when a stranger rushed through the entrance.
From Los Angeles Times ● May 21, 2026
During the height of the Covid-19 era, cruises seemed dead in the water: Nations were closing their doors and ships have long been seen as potential petri dishes given how quickly germs can spread onboard.
From Barron's ● May 6, 2026
Gall and the warriors were closing the distance.
From "In the Footsteps of Crazy Horse" by Joseph Marshall III
