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The definition of often is many times or frequently.

(adverb)

An example of often is how many times someone has to change the diaper of a baby each day.

See often in Webster's New World College Dictionary

adverb

many times; repeatedly; frequently

Origin: ME var. of oft

adjective

Archaic frequent

See often in American Heritage Dictionary 4

adverb of·ten·er, of·ten·est

Many times; frequently.

Origin:

Origin: Middle English

Origin: , alteration (probably influenced by selden, seldom)

Origin: of oft

Origin: , from Old English; see upo in Indo-European roots

Usage Note: During the 15th century English experienced a widespread loss of certain consonant sounds within consonant clusters, as the (d) in handsome and handkerchief, the (p) in consumption and raspberry, and the (t) in chestnut and often. In this way the consonant clusters were simplified and made easier to articulate. With the rise of public education and literacy and, consequently, people's awareness of spelling in the 19th century, sounds that had become silent sometimes were restored, as is the case with the t in often, which is now frequently pronounced. In other similar words, such as soften and listen, the t generally remains silent.

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