beforehand

adverb or adjective

be·​fore·​hand bi-ˈfȯr-ˌhand How to pronounce beforehand (audio)
bē-
Synonyms of beforehandnext
1
a
: in anticipation
b
: in advance
2
: ahead of time : early

Examples of beforehand in a Sentence

if you arrive beforehand, we won't be entirely prepared yet if you get ready beforehand, you won't have to rush at the last minute
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Clinics HairNeva typically explain this timeline beforehand so patients know the growth cycle rather than assuming the procedure failed. Nia Bowers, Miami Herald, 31 Dec. 2025 For years beforehand, everyone was predicting a near disaster. Marla Jo Fisher, Oc Register, 31 Dec. 2025 Reflect on the purpose beforehand. Travel + Leisure Editors, Travel + Leisure, 29 Dec. 2025 The Warriors were rolling (3-0) beforehand and will be tough to beat. Tom Mulherin, Boston Herald, 29 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for beforehand

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of beforehand was in the 13th century

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Cite this Entry

“Beforehand.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/beforehand. Accessed 2 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

beforehand

adverb
be·​fore·​hand -ˌhand How to pronounce beforehand (audio)
: ahead of time : in advance

More from Merriam-Webster on beforehand

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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