抱えていた

was holding

→ 抱える
phrase Uncommon #9,411
was holding Past progressive form of 抱える, used for physically holding or carrying something, and sometimes for having or dealing with a problem or burden.
JA: 彼女は大きな荷物を抱えていた。
EN: She was carrying a large piece of luggage.

彼女は白い本を脇に抱えていた

She was carrying a white book under her arm.

彼は両手に大きな箱を抱えていた

He was carrying a large box in both hands.

夫婦金銭問題を抱えていた

The couple was having financial problems.

— 落下の解剖学 (2023)

彼女は両腕赤ん坊を抱えていた

She was holding a baby in both arms.

彼は大きな箱を両腕抱えていた

He was holding a large box in both arms.