spill
verb (used with object)
to cause or allow to run or fall from a container, especially accidentally or wastefully.
were spilling
-
past progressiveof spill.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.
Higher fuel prices were spilling to shipping costs, airfare and fertilizer.
From MarketWatch ● May 20, 2026
Hundreds of real estate brokers were spilling off the sidewalk and into the street around New York City Hall.
From Slate ● Jun. 17, 2024
As kids were spilling out of the gates at Helen Keller Elementary School in Lynwood, outreach worker Alma Aracen tried to talk to the parents crowded outside.
From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 28, 2022
There was a feeling among officials that diplomatic arguments with China over human rights were spilling over into the climate arena.
From BBC ● Mar. 31, 2021
The image of the hooded man, his face hidden in shadow, had thrown open a door in my mind and memories were spilling out.
From "The Name of the Wind" by Patrick Rothfuss
