spend time

spend time (third-person singular simple present spends time, present participle spending time, simple past and past participle spent time)

1. To dedicate time to an activity.

   These days, many people spend time surfing social networking sites.

   • 1957 October, Cecil J. Allen, “British Locomotive Practice and Performance”, in Railway Magazine, page 714:

     The rebuilt "Merchant Navy" Pacifics have the monopoly of these workings, and Mr. C. K. Dunkley writes that as a result of their reduced water consumption, as compared with the unrebuilt engines, some engine-crews no longer spend time taking water at Southampton Central, the invariable practice previously.

   • 2013 July-August, Henry Petroski, “Geothermal Energy”, in American Scientist, volume 101, number 4:

     Energy has seldom been found where we need it when we want it. Ancient nomads, wishing to ward off the evening chill and enjoy a meal around a campfire, had to collect wood and then spend time and effort coaxing the heat of friction out from between sticks to kindle a flame.

2. To accompany someone for leisure; to hang out.

   It's my day off today - let's spend some time together.   Parents should spend more time with their children.

• take the time

• pediments