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

German and Czech immigrants who settled in Central Texas during the 1800s introduced meat-smoking and butcher shop traditions that later became foundational to what many now recognize as classic Texas barbecue, according to the Texas Historical Association. —Rebecca Morin, USA Today, 29 May 2026

Plus, check out the rest of her hair primping routine and some more on-sale options to shop during the retailer's Big Spring Sale below. —Tamim Alnuweiri, InStyle, 29 May 2026

Prune plants judiciously and hand weed around the base of plants to avoid damaging roots during cultivation. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 29 May 2026

Made from moisture-wicking fabric, this workout tank naturally repels sweat to keep you cool during high-intensity workouts and outdoor activities. —Emily Weaver, PEOPLE, 29 May 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