spiral
noun
a plane curve generated by a point moving around a fixed point while constantly receding from or approaching it.
were spiraling
-
past progressiveof spiral.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.
By the time of Elvis’ death in 1977, both men were spiraling out of control.
From Salon ● Aug. 8, 2025
They came into the day with a 29-36 record and were spiraling into irrelevance.
From Seattle Times ● May 10, 2023
When covid cases were spiraling, foreign consulates here warned their citizens that they might face forced quarantine and family separations.
From Washington Post ● Mar. 19, 2023
To be fair to Unseld, the coach did try to make tactical adjustments as the Wizards were spiraling out of control.
From Washington Times ● Feb. 5, 2023
They were spiraling like a huge tornado, heading toward the track.
From "The Sea of Monsters" by Rick Riordan
