Meaning & Definition of word "Oft"
Oft
/ɔːft/
adverb:
- 1. Often; frequently.
- Example: He oft visits his grandmother on weekends.
- 2. At other times; occasionally.
- Example: She is oft reminded of her childhood adventures.
- 3. In many instances; many times.
- Example: Oft have I wondered about the mysteries of the universe.
- 4. Commonly; regularly.
- Example: It is oft said that practice makes perfect.
Etymology
●Middle English, from Old English 'ofter', 'oft', akin to Old High German 'ofto' meaning 'often'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
oftentimes:
On many occasions; frequently.
as oft as:
Every time; whenever.
oft in the day:
Several times during the day.
Related Words
often:
Repeatedly; at frequent intervals.
frequency:
The rate at which something occurs over a given period of time.
Slang Meanings of oft
Meaning: Commonly used in poetry or old texts to mean 'often'.
● Example Sentence: The poet wrote of love oft and tenderly.
Meaning: Used humorously or archly in modern speech.
● Example Sentence: I oft confuse my left and right!