rend
verb (used with object)
to separate into parts with force or violence.
were rending
-
past progressiveof rend.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.
Reynolds in particular declined all interference in the contentions which were rending in twain the society.
From Art in England Notes and Studies by Dutton Cook
Many were rending their hair, others clapping their hands in distraction—some were kneeling to Heaven to implore its protection, and not a few to call down its vengeance upon their oppressors.
From Valentine M'Clutchy, The Irish Agent The Works of William Carleton, Volume Two by William Carleton
He thought, he told me afterwards, that he was on Calvary beneath the rood, and that the rocks were rending about him.
From The History of Richard Raynal, Solitary by Robert Hugh Benson
"It is freshening, by Jove!" said he, as a squall struck the vessel, and laid her almost on her beam ends, while every plank shivered as though she were rending in pieces.
From Roland Cashel Volume I (of II) by Charles James Lever
She managed it with difficulty between the convulsions that were rending her.
From The Spenders A Tale of the Third Generation by Harry Leon Wilson
