Meaning & Definition of word "Early"

Early

/ˈɜːrli/

adjective:

  • 1. Occurring near the beginning of a period of time, process, or event.
    • Example: She arrived early to the meeting to prepare her presentation.
  • 2. Happening or done before the usual or expected time.
    • Example: They decided to serve dinner early to accommodate the guests' travel plans.
  • 3. In the early stages or development.
    • Example: He is an early adopter of new technology and always has the latest gadgets.

adverb:

  • 1. Before the usual or expected time.
    • Example: She woke up early to go for a run before work.
  • 2. At a point in time that is near the beginning.
    • Example: He left early so he wouldn’t get stuck in traffic.

Etymology

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

Common Phrases and Expressions

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.

Related Words

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.

Slang Meanings of early

Meaning: To be ahead of others in arriving or doing something.

Example Sentence: I always try to be early to get the best seats.

Meaning: Being prompt or on time.

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