essay
noun
a short literary composition on a particular theme or subject, usually in prose and generally analytic, speculative, or interpretative.
were essaying
-
past progressiveof essay.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.
A profound sigh agitated the breast of the lady; and at the same time her lips quivered strangely, as if she were essaying to speak.
From Wagner, the Wehr-Wolf by George W. M. (George William MacArthur) Reynolds
To us it seemed madness to attempt with eighteen oxen a harder task than we and others were essaying with thirty; we would have waited until the road ahead was clear.
From Jock of the Bushveld by Sir Percy Fitzpatrick
It reveals to us the visions that were occupying the minds of the best men in the latter part of the exile, and the work they were essaying.
From The Right and Wrong Uses of the Bible by R. Heber Newton
Almost all sent delegates, and the congress held long sessions, while the Senate and House were essaying the same task.
From The Negro and the Nation A History of American Slavery and Enfranchisement by George Spring Merriam
Young orioles were essaying flight from their wind-rocked cradles on the outer boughs of the elms.
From Nature's Serial Story by Edward Payson Roe
