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 regarded as close to Lord Mandelson, Streeting has distanced himself from the former Labour minister since his sacking as US ambassador, saying earlier this year he would never speak to him again.

From BBC • May 13, 2026

Formerly known as CBS Studio Center, the Los Angeles lot has been home to generations of landmark television shows including “Gunsmoke” and “Seinfeld.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 20, 2026

Formerly Maduro's vice president, Rodriguez took over after a US bombing raid on Caracas on January 3 ended with his capture and transfer to New York to face drug-trafficking charges.

From Barron's • Jan. 12, 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, when the subject of relocating came up, Royal told Cora he favored Canada over the west.

From "The Underground Railroad: A Novel" by Colson Whitehead

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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