formerly

[fawr-mer-lee] / ˈfɔr mər li /

ADVERB

previously in time or order

Synonyms

STRONGEST

already earlier heretofore once

STRONG

erstwhile

WEAK

a while back aforetime anciently at one time away back back back when before before now before this down memory lane eons ago erewhile in former times in the olden days in the past lately long ago of old of yore olden days once upon a time radically some time ago time was used to be water under the bridge

Antonyms

WEAK

currently future presently subsequently

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.

Up to 150 of the 480 High Street stores formerly part of the WHSmith business will be closed in a restructuring plan launched by the owner of the chain.

From BBC • May 6, 2026

I found online memes from Amar Shergill — a Steyer supporter and activist I respect who formerly chaired the California Democratic Party’s Progressive Caucus — including his charts comparing the Democratic field.

From Salon • May 6, 2026

His parents were formerly undocumented, just like my dad, and he has been a fierce advocate for immigrants going back to his labor organizing days.

From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2026

YouTube brought its formerly mobile-exclusive Gemini-powered summaries and timestamps to its megapopular TV app in March.

From Slate • May 3, 2026

They walk a short way down an adjoining passageway, layers of mud sticking to Bailey’s formerly shiny shoes.

From "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern

Vocabulary lists containing formerly

Commonly Confused Words, List 1

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Commonly Confused Words, List 3

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Commonly Confused Words, List 7

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