Meaning & Definition of word "Past"
Past
/pæst/
noun:
- 1. A time before the present; a time that has gone by.
- Example: The past is often a source of nostalgia for many people.
- 2. History; experiences or events that have occurred.
- Example: We learn from the past to create a better future.
adjective:
- 1. Belonging to a time that has already happened.
- Example: She reflected on her past experiences in the city.
- 2. Former; previous.
- Example: He relied on his past knowledge to solve the problem.
preposition:
- 1. In a direction that goes beyond something.
- Example: She walked past the store without noticing it.
- 2. After; beyond the time when something has happened.
- Example: He returned home past midnight.
adverb:
- 1. At a time in the past.
- Example: His achievements are recognized now, but they were overlooked in the past.
Etymology
●Derived from Middle English 'pas'; from Old French 'past', from Latin 'pāsstum', meaning 'to pass'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
past tense:
A grammatical tense used to express actions that have already occurred.
leave the past behind:
To forget about past events or experiences.
in the past:
Referring to a time before now.
past due:
Something that is overdue or not paid on time.
Related Words
history:
The study of past events, particularly in human affairs.
memory:
The faculty by which the mind stores and remembers information.
nostalgia:
A sentimental longing or wistful affection for the past.
Slang Meanings of past
Meaning: Going beyond; exceeding, often used in a joking context.
● Example Sentence: That party was so fun, it went past all expectations!
Meaning: Referring to something outdated or old-fashioned.
● Example Sentence: Those bell-bottom jeans are totally past, dude.