Early

/ˈɜːrli/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Occurring near the beginning of a period of time, process, or event.

She arrived early to the meeting to prepare her presentation.

Happening or done before the usual or expected time.

They decided to serve dinner early to accommodate the guests' travel plans.

In the early stages or development.

He is an early adopter of new technology and always has the latest gadgets.

adverb

Before the usual or expected time.

She woke up early to go for a run before work.

At a point in time that is near the beginning.

He left early so he wouldn’t get stuck in traffic.

Middle English 'erlīc', from Old English 'ǣrlic', from 'ǣr' meaning early.

early bird

A person who arrives early or takes advantage of opportunities before others.

early days

Referring to the initial period of an event or situation.

early to bed, early to rise

A proverb suggesting that going to bed early leads to health and success.

earliness

The quality of being early.

early-stage

Referring to the initial or developing phase of something.

early-meeting

A meeting that takes place in the morning or before usual hours.

To be ahead of others in arriving or doing something.

I always try to be early to get the best seats.

Being prompt or on time.

Being early is my way of showing respect for others' time.