consume
verb (used with object)
to destroy or expend by use; use up.
were consuming
-
past progressiveof consume.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.
If people were told they were consuming a drink with artificial sweeteners, they rated sugar-containing drinks as less enjoyable.
From Science Daily ● Apr. 9, 2026
The pigs that were consuming the poisoned bait were not immediately dying because they were consuming bait meant to kill much smaller animals, Burton said.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 5, 2025
The models sometimes appeared as if the garments were consuming them.
From Seattle Times ● Sep. 29, 2023
We provided all of the meals so we knew exactly how many calories study participants were consuming.
From Salon ● Nov. 1, 2022
He glanced toward the kitchen, which the flames were consuming with glee, and headed across the living room toward Angel’s bedroom.
From "Forged by Fire" by Sharon M. Draper
