Here's why:
* Verb: The base form is "eat," which is a verb.
* Present Participle: The "-ing" ending indicates that it's a present participle. Present participles can be used in various ways:
* As part of a verb phrase: "The dog is eating its food."
* As an adjective: "The eating contest was intense."
* As a noun: "Eating is a necessary activity."
Let me know if you'd like more examples or want to explore other verbals!