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 a personal trainer, bodybuilder, and weightlifter who loved hockey and running, her life completely changed.

From BBC • Apr. 9, 2026

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

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 19, 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 strong U.S. allies, including the UK, Colombia and the Netherlands, have either refused or suspended intelligence sharing with the U.S. because of the illegal strikes.

From Salon • Nov. 25, 2025

Formerly we should not have had a single thought in common—now we sit with a goose between us and feel in unison, are so intimate that we do not even speak.

From "All Quiet on the Western Front: A Novel" by Erich Maria Remarque

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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