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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.

Wallick wears a helmet and a cup when he goes water skiing, after once taking a hit to the groin that knocked him off his skis.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 8, 2026

The shortform spectacle demonstrated once again that the annual pilgrimage to Augusta National is not all about stressing over fairway lies and pin positions.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

“What stands out is how quickly the market flipped once the pressure eased,” said Mark Hackett, chief market strategist at Nationwide in a research note.

From Barron's • Apr. 8, 2026

The once reticent Lopes also showed leadership qualities as early as 1976, when a throw by new Dodgers outfielder Dusty Baker had missed the cutoff man.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 8, 2026

Her aunt Mabel’s bowl had once belonged to her grandmother.

From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith