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Translate files Past
/pæst/
Meaning & Definition
noun
A time before the present; a time that has gone by.
The past is often a source of nostalgia for many people.
History; experiences or events that have occurred.
We learn from the past to create a better future.
adjective
Belonging to a time that has already happened.
She reflected on her past experiences in the city.
Former; previous.
He relied on his past knowledge to solve the problem.
preposition
In a direction that goes beyond something.
She walked past the store without noticing it.
After; beyond the time when something has happened.
He returned home past midnight.
adverb
At a time in the past.
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
Going beyond; exceeding, often used in a joking context.
That party was so fun, it went past all expectations!
Referring to something outdated or old-fashioned.
Those bell-bottom jeans are totally past, dude.