now and then

adverb

Synonyms of now and thennext
: from time to time : occasionally
now and then we go off to the country

Synonyms of now and then

Relevance
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Examples of now and then in a Sentence

we do go to the library now and then, but not as often as we should
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.
And between now and then, thinking back to the bliss of your stay, with all of its special touches, exemplary food, and nearly clairvoyant service. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Aug. 2026 Not a forest by any means, but a small woods where there are squirrels and chipmunks, probably snakes and skunks, rabbits and, now and then, passing through on some mysterious transient route, a deer or a family of deer. — Literary Hub, 24 Aug. 2026 Who knows what other club sales could shape the narratives between now and then? — Maury Brown, Forbes.com, 19 Aug. 2026 Every parent needs a break now and then, and babies need a break, too. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 18 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for now and then

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of now and then was in the 15th century

Rhymes for now and then

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Browse Nearby Words

now and again
now and then
nowanights
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Now and then.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/now%20and%20then. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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