Definitions

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.

Formerly an avid cyclist, Islas said the incident has irrevocably changed his life.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 19, 2026

Formerly heavily reliant on Russia, Europe has spent the past few years diversifying imports, relying more on the U.S. and the Middle East.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 7, 2026

Formerly Maduro's vice president, Rodriguez, 56, has quickly moved in less than four weeks in power to overhaul Venezuelan society in ways sought by the United States, earning high praise from US President Donald Trump.

From Barron's • Jan. 31, 2026

Formerly named Brits Rising Star, the award showcases up-and-coming talent selected by a panel of industry experts.

From BBC • Jan. 19, 2026

But as students and staff made the connection between Sasha and the Person Formerly Known as Luke, they absorbed the information without much comment.

From "The 57 Bus" by Dashka Slater

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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