Definitions

once

[wuhns] / wʌns /

ADJECTIVE

in the past; occurred one time only

Synonyms

STRONGEST

already before earlier formerly previously

STRONG

erstwhile late

WEAK

back back when bygone in the old days in the olden days in times gone by in times past long-ago old on one occasion once only once upon a time one one time before one time previously only one time quondam sometime this time time was whilom

ADVERB

in the past; occurred one time only

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 once upon a time 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.

“The Little Sister” grows even more intriguing once the love affair runs aground, forcing Fatima to flounder in her heartache.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 12, 2026

Hospitals in Cuba, once heralded for its doctors and healthcare system, are taking only the most critically ill patients.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 12, 2026

Football-mad Indonesia participated in the World Cup just once, in 1938, when it was known as the Dutch East Indies, losing 6-0 in the final 16 to Hungary.

From Barron's • Jun. 12, 2026

There will "probably be a signing, maybe in Europe" once the documents are finalised, he said - and it should be done "pretty quickly".

From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026

Her once jet-black curly hair has been dyed blond.

From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith

Vocabulary lists containing once

4-letter words, List 2

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

once

Example Sentences

Related Words

Vocabulary lists containing once

4-letter words, List 2