during

UK: ˈdjʊərɪŋ | US: ˈdʊrɪŋ

Definition

  1. prep. throughout the course or duration of (a period of time)

  2. prep. at a particular point in the course of (a period of time)

Structure
dur <last>ing <present participle suffix>
Etymology

The word "during" originated from the Old French durant, the present participle of durer (to last), which itself derives from Latin dūrāre (to harden, endure). Over time, the sense shifted from "lasting" to "throughout the duration of," reflecting its modern prepositional use. The suffix -ing marks its grammatical role as a participle-turned-preposition.

Examples

  1. She studied diligently during the summer break.

  2. The store remains closed during holidays.

  3. He received several calls during the meeting.

  4. During the storm, we stayed indoors.

  5. The museum offers free entry during weekends.