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Definitions

erstwhile

[urst-hwahyl, -wahyl] / ˈɜrstˌʰwaɪl, -ˌwaɪl /


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 party's sudden fall from grace in the eyes of the population, even of some erstwhile supporters, has been spectacular.

From BBC • Apr. 17, 2026

The erstwhile interim U.S. attorney, then, is in a pickle of his own making.

From Slate • Mar. 11, 2026

A fifth consecutive league victory moved Niko Kovac's side to 48 points, within a victory of erstwhile runaway leaders Bayern, who can restore their six-point cushion with victory at in-form Hoffenheim on Sunday.

From Barron's • Feb. 7, 2026

He suggests that if the tech sector does start to meaningfully falter this may deliver a psychological shift among investors whereby the erstwhile winners are given the losers tag.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 2, 2026

Vincent, the erstwhile evangelist, now living with a baker, spending his time drawing.

From "Vincent and Theo: The Van Gogh Brothers" by Deborah Heiligman




Vocabulary lists containing erstwhile