Meaning & Definition of word "Bygone"

Bygone

/ˈbaɪɡɒn/

noun:

  • 1. A person or thing that is in the past.
    • Example: The bygones of the past should not dictate our future.
  • 2. Events or incidents in the past.
    • Example: He chose to let bygones be bygones and forgive her.

adjective:

  • 1. Belonging to an earlier time.
    • Example: She often reminisces about the bygone days of her childhood.
  • 2. Past; no longer in existence.
    • Example: The store has a charm reminiscent of bygone eras.

Etymology

From the phrase 'by gone', meaning 'past' or 'gone by'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

bygone era:

A period in the past that is no longer in existence.

let bygones be bygones:

To forget past grievances and move on.

Related Words

nostalgia:

A sentimental longing for the past.

reminisce:

To indulge in enjoyable recollection of past events.

Slang Meanings of bygone

Meaning: Old school

Example Sentence: That style is so bygone, it's totally old school.

Meaning: Feels like yesterday

Example Sentence: Hanging out with my friends feels like a bygone, but I love those memories.