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.

As research continues, Mars is proving to be far more complex than once thought, with many of its secrets still waiting to be uncovered.

From Science Daily • Apr. 5, 2026

“This gives a benefit to those who already have power and privilege, and once they get good at it, they just simply keep playing the game,” Zirkel said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

The very convention that had once sustained jatra began to unravel.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

The church members plan to gather for a service at Kheimeh Molaghat on Easter Sunday, where they intend to once again pray together for the future of Iran and their loved ones back home.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2026

At once scores of voices demanded that they be raised again.

From "The Hiding Place" by Corrie ten Boom

once

Example Sentences

Related Words