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
In an apparent sign that rescue missions were closing up, interim President Delcy Rodriquez held a ceremony to hand out medals to international teams, including their rescue dogs.
From Barron's ● Jul. 4, 2026
Oil prices pulled back on renewed optimism that the U.S and Iran were closing in on a deal that would reopen the Strait of Hormuz, but U.S. stock futures were largely flat.
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
But in the spring of 1814, the British were closing in on Washington.
From "In the Shadow of Liberty" by Kenneth C. Davis
