once upon a time

ADVERB

formerly

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 radically some time ago time was used to be water under the bridge

Antonyms

WEAK

currently future presently subsequently

ADVERB

once

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 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.

“What kept them once upon a time, and still does, was/is sheer breadth, i.e. ‘always having something to watch.’

From MarketWatch • May 28, 2026

But once upon a time, they came with a stigma.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 22, 2025

Arrowhead's legendary status comes partly from her lineage; she is the daughter of Krishna and granddaughter of Machli - majestic tigresses who, once upon a time, dominated vast home ranges in Ranthambore with ferocity.

From BBC • Jun. 24, 2025

According to the American Kennel Club, Great Danes were developed once upon a time by German nobles to hunt ferocious wild boars, and they later became beloved protectors of their home and loved ones.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 10, 2024

There had been a circle of stones in the courtyard of the castle, once upon a time.

From "The Girl Who Drank the Moon" by Kelly Barnhill

once upon a time

Example Sentences

Related Words