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

• 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

According to Arkansas law, all drain plugs must be removed from your boat at the boat ramp upon the conclusion of your outing and during transport. —Arkansas Online, 21 Oct. 2025

Stamos also shared during his Good Guys appearance that Loughlin's recent breakup came as a surprise to him. —Raechal Shewfelt, Entertainment Weekly, 21 Oct. 2025

Recreate Witherspoon’s rich monochromatic look with these burgundy pants that are practically begging to be worn during holiday gatherings. —Averi Baudler, PEOPLE, 21 Oct. 2025

The kits were an idea Beach gathered during her research trip to three similar secure living lots in San Diego and Long Beach, California, in May. —Grace Tucker, Cincinnati Enquirer, 21 Oct. 2025

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