ongoing

adjective

on·​go·​ing ˈȯn-ˌgō-iŋ 

ˈän-, 

-ˌgȯ(-)iŋ

1

a

: being actually in process

ongoing research

b

: continuing

The investigation is ongoing.

2

: continuously moving forward : growing

the long ongoing history of medicine

ongoingness

ˈȯn-ˌgō-iŋ-nəs 

ˈän-, 

-ˌgȯ(-)iŋ-

noun

Synonyms of ongoing

• operating
• proceeding
• continuing

Examples of ongoing in a Sentence

the ongoing events at the school

ongoing efforts to find a cure for the disease

There is an ongoing debate over the issue.

Recent Examples on the Web

Eriq La Salle, the Emmy-winning former co-star of the TV series ER, is also the author of an ongoing thriller series. — The Week Us, TheWeek, 22 Sep. 2026

Christina Applegate is back home and prioritizing self-confidence in the latest update on her ongoing battle with multiple sclerosis. — Isabella Albaig, Vulture, 22 Sep. 2026

Research has linked avoiding conversations about ongoing threats to worse mental health in children during times of crisis. — Anahi Collado, The Conversation, 22 Sep. 2026

The family’s statement also appeared to reference an element of the ongoing investigation. — Kacen Bayless, Kansas City Star, 22 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1877, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for ongoing

• blowing
• boing
• bowing
• crowing
• flowing
• glowing
• going
• growing
• hoeing
• knowing
• lowing
• rowing

Kids Definition

ongoing

adjective

on·​go·​ing ˈȯn-ˌgō-iŋ 

ˈän-

: being in progress or movement