Erstwhile meaning

ûrstwīl, -hwīl
The definition of erstwhile is something from an earlier time.

An example of something erstwhile is a girl who was your best friend as a child.

adjective
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(archaic) Some time ago; formerly.
adverb
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Of an earlier time; former.

My erstwhile friend.

adjective
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In the past; at a former time; formerly.
adverb
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Former.

Our erstwhile companions.

adjective
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Formerly; in the past.
adverb
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(literary, law) Former, previous.
adjective
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Origin of erstwhile

Erstwhile Sentence Examples

  • Oh Mother, I am seeing scenes which erstwhile lingered deep within the bounds of restless sleep.

  • The ruthless methods by which the Spaniards forced the natives to labour for them caused a change in the attitude of the erstwhile friendly Borinquenos.

  • Inside the US Administration, one figure had a personal detestation of Libya's erstwhile leader.

  • The visual incongruity of erstwhile ambassador and broken Jack-in-the-box is heart-breaking.

  • Designed by the erstwhile chief designer of Camper & Nicholson, this 58 ' gaff ketch is simply stunning.

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Words near erstwhile in the Dictionary