English dictionary
tending
verbPronunciation
/ˈtɛndɪŋ/
Audio pronunciation
Parts of speech
Definitions
verb
- (Old English law) To make a tender of; to offer or tender.
- (followed by a to-infinitive) To be likely, or probable to do something, or to have a certain habit or leaning.
- To contribute to or toward some outcome.
verb
- (with to) To look after (e.g. an ill person.)
- To accompany as an assistant or protector; to care for the wants of; to look after; to watch; to guard.
- To wait (upon), as attendants or servants; to serve; to attend.
- To await; to expect.
- To be attentive to; to note carefully; to attend to.
- To manage (an anchored vessel) when the tide turns, to prevent it from entangling the cable when swinging.
verb
- To kindle; ignite; set on fire; light; inflame; burn.
Example sentences
It tends to snow here in winter.
We need to tend to the garden, which has become a mess.
Shepherds tend their flocks.