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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.

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

Major daytime attacks by Russia, which were once rare, have been increasing.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

While not framed as a direct response to the earlier controversy, the casting offers a quiet rebuttal to the narrative that once surrounded him.

From Salon • 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

I went at once to Amsterdam to see him.

From "The Hiding Place" by Corrie ten Boom

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.