Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Shares of Dell Technologies were rocketing higher Friday, following a stellar earnings report that echoed the strengthening opportunity for traditional computing in the artificial-intelligence buildout.
From MarketWatch ● May 29, 2026
Entering the final 500m, the Netherlands had a half-a-boat length’s lead ahead of GB and were rocketing towards the finish line.
From BBC ● Aug. 1, 2024
Many artists who might be unfamiliar in the auction world were rocketing past their estimates.
From New York Times ● May 22, 2023
Rio acquired Rio Tinto Coal Mozambique in 2011 through its $3.7 billion takeover of Riversdale Mining Ltd., as coal prices were rocketing on ballooning demand from Asia and supply disruptions in major coal-producing countries.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 1, 2016
Betty’s engine started with a snarl, and suddenly we were rocketing backward.
From "The Darkest Minds" by Alexandra Bracken
