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
Examples of present participle in a Sentence
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. . . .
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Jack Greiner, The Enquirer, 11 Nov. 2020
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Jack Greiner, The Enquirer, 11 Nov. 2020
Cite this Entry
“Present participle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/present%20participle. Accessed 30 Oct. 2025.
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