present participle

noun

: a participle that typically expresses present action in relation to the time expressed by the finite verb in its clause and that in English is formed with the suffix -ing and is used in the formation of the progressive tenses

Example Sentences

The verbs “dancing” in “He was dancing” and “crying” in “The baby is crying” are present participles.

Recent Examples on the Web Use of the present participle denotes present and continuing action. . . .

Jack Greiner, The Enquirer, 11 Nov. 2020

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'present participle.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

First Known Use

1864, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of present participle was in 1864

See more words from the same year

Dictionary Entries Near present participle

presentor

present participle

present perfect

See More Nearby Entries

Cite this Entry

Style

“Present participle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/present%20participle. Accessed 7 Dec. 2022.

Copy Citation