Meaning & Definition of word "Hitherto"

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    Hitherto

    /ˌhɪðərˈtuː/

    adverb:

    • 1. Up to this time; until now.
      • Example: The technology had hitherto been unknown to the general public.
    • 2. At this point in time; prior to this time.
      • Example: Hitherto, there had been no evidence to support the claims.
    • 3. So far; until now.
      • Example: The results of the experiment were hitherto inconclusive.
    • 4. Previously; before this time.
      • Example: The research focused on species that were hitherto unstudied.

    Etymology

    From Middle English hither to, literally meaning 'to this place'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    hitherto unknown:

    Referring to something that has not been known until now.

    hitherto unmentioned:

    Referring to something that has not been mentioned until this moment.

    Related Words

    hither:

    To or towards this place.

    heretofore:

    Before this time; previously.

    Slang Meanings of hitherto