being

p. pr. from Be. Existing. [ 1913 Webster ]

☞ Being was formerly used where we now use having. “Being to go to a ball in a few days.” Miss Edgeworth. [ 1913 Webster ]

☞ In modern usage, is, are, was or were being, with a past participle following (as built, made, etc.) indicates the process toward the completed result expressed by the participle. The form is or was building, in this passive signification, is idiomatic, and, if free from ambiguity, is commonly preferable to the modern is or was being built. The last form of speech is, however, sufficiently authorized by approved writers. The older expression was is, or was, a-building or in building. [ 1913 Webster ]

A man who is being strangled. Lamb. [ 1913 Webster ]

While the article on Burns was being written. Froude. [ 1913 Webster ]

Fresh experience is always being gained. Jowett (Thucyd. ) [ 1913 Webster ]

n. 1. Existence, as opposed to nonexistence; state or sphere of existence. [ 1913 Webster ]

In Him we live, and move, and have our being. Acts xvii. 28. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. That which exists in any form, whether it be material or spiritual, actual or ideal; living existence, as distinguished from a thing without life; as, a human being; spiritual beings. [ 1913 Webster ]

What a sweet being is an honest mind ! Beau. & Fl. [ 1913 Webster ]

A Being of infinite benevolence and power. Wordsworth. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. Lifetime; mortal existence. [ Obs. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

Claudius, thou
Wast follower of his fortunes in his being. Webster (1654). [ 1913 Webster ]

4. An abode; a cottage. [ Prov. Eng. ] Wright. [ 1913 Webster ]

It was a relief to dismiss them [ Sir Roger's servants ] into little beings within my manor. Steele. [ 1913 Webster ]