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.

Gulf states once seen as safe havens are now under threat, accused by Iran of serving as launchpads for US strikes.

From Barron's • Apr. 4, 2026

“This is my 25th Final Four. Not once has any of my players said, ‘Hey, Coach, can I go lift weights?’

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

Today, where streams once flowed, stands a luxury hotel - the Transcorp Hilton Abuja.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

Macron said France was preparing an international mission to escort ships through the Strait—but only once the conflict eases.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

It was astonishing, once we’d made the swap, how well everything went.

From "The Hiding Place" by Corrie ten Boom

once

Example Sentences

Related Words