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

Synonyms of beforehand

Relevance
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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.
The existence of speculation about a Venezuela agreement doesn't eliminate the potential value of knowing the contents and timing of the president's announcement beforehand. — Robert Rapier, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026 Despite the increasing commercialization of the week, basic entry is still free, although folks must register for a fan access pass beforehand. — Lev Akabas, Sportico.com, 28 Aug. 2026 Davis recommends drinking plenty of water that day and eating something light beforehand. — Lindy Segal, Glamour, 27 Aug. 2026 No heavy rainfall was recorded in the affected area beforehand. — Milad Haghani, Scientific American, 27 Aug. 2026 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

Rhymes for beforehand

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Browse Nearby Words

before bed
beforehand
before long
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Beforehand.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/beforehand. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

beforehand

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