during

preposition

dur·​ing ˈdu̇r-iŋ 

also ˈdyu̇r-

1

: throughout the duration of

swims every day during the summer

2

: at a point in the course of

was offered a job during a visit to the capital

Synonyms of during

• throughout
• by

Examples of during in a Sentence

She swims every day during the summer.

We got along well during the trip.

He worked in the field during most of the day.

During the interview, they asked about my previous jobs.

The fire alarm went off during the ceremony.

Recent Examples on the Web

The case included 13 days of testimony, during which her defense team did not call any witnesses. —Emily Mae Czachor, CBS News, 17 Mar. 2026

Designed to lift spirits during even the darkest mid-winter days, dozens of chandeliers decorate the hallways and public areas – including a piece above the bar designed to mimic snow lanterns. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Mar. 2026

To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments. —Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 17 Mar. 2026

Hope misplayed a fly ball during the seventh inning for his second error of the game. —Bill Plunkett, Oc Register, 17 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from present participle of duren to last, from Anglo-French durer, from Latin durare to harden, endure, last, from durus hard; perhaps akin to Sanskrit dāru wood — more at tree entry 1

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for during

• curing
• luring
• mooring
• touring
• alluring
• assuring
• contouring
• enduring
• ensuring
• insuring
• manuring
• maturing

Kids Definition

during

preposition

dur·​ing ˌd(y)u̇r-iŋ 

1

: throughout the course of

swims every day during the summer

2

: at some time in the course of

you may call me during the day