Definitions

once

[wuhns] / wʌns /

ADJECTIVE

in the past; occurred one time only

Synonyms

STRONGEST

already before earlier formerly previously

STRONG

erstwhile late

WEAK

back back when bygone in the old days in the olden days in times gone by in times past long-ago old on one occasion once only once upon a time one one time before one time previously only one time quondam sometime this time time was whilom

ADVERB

in the past; occurred one time only

Synonyms

STRONGEST

already before earlier formerly late previously

STRONG

erstwhile

WEAK

a single time at one time away back back back when but once bygone heretofore in the old days in the olden days in times gone by in times past long ago old on one occasion once only once upon a time one one time before one time previously only one time quondam sometime this time time was whilom

Antonyms

STRONGEST

currently future later presently

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But those details, while significant, were quickly overshadowed by the visual: the sense that once the decision was made, there was no effort to preserve the image of continuity.

From Salon • Apr. 4, 2026

They added the team would be prepared to jump from planes if needed, and once on the ground their priority would be to contact the missing crew member.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

Yes, Luka Doncic is incredible and his addition to the Lakers might well get us to the promised land once again.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2026

Beyond the first factory in Hokkaido, Koike plans more fabs once the orders start flowing.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

The forest once again bloomed into a prism of color.

From "The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest" by Aubrey Hartman

once

Example Sentences

Related Words