Early Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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early

[ˈərli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

time

happening or done before the usual or expected time

Synonyms

premature, prompt, timely.

Examples of usage

  • She was an early riser, always awake before the sun.
  • The early bird catches the worm.
  • We arrived early to avoid the crowds.
  • The meeting was scheduled for early afternoon.
  • He made an early decision to pursue his passion.
Context #2 | Adverb

time

before the usual or expected time

Synonyms

ahead of time, in advance, prematurely.

Examples of usage

  • She arrived early for the interview.
  • He finished his work early and went home.
  • The store opens early on weekends.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • Many cultures have valued early rising as a sign of diligence and productivity, dating back to ancient agricultural societies.
  • The phrase 'Early to bed, early to rise' has been attributed to Benjamin Franklin, encouraging hard work and discipline.

Science

  • Research suggests that early risers may have better mental health and higher levels of positivity.
  • Circadian rhythms, which dictate our sleep-wake cycles, play a crucial role in determining if someone is an early bird or a night owl.

Pop Culture

  • Numerous songs and media reference the concept of being early as a metaphor for preparedness and success.
  • Popular idiomatic expressions like 'The early bird gets the worm' have entered common discourse, emphasizing the value of timeliness.

Literature

  • In many classic novels, characters who wake up early often symbolize ambition and readiness to face challenges.
  • Famous authors like Charles Dickens often depicted early mornings as times of reflection and clarity in their works.

Origin of 'early'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'ǣr', meaning 'before'.
  • Earliest documented use dates back to the 12th century, showing its long-standing presence in the English language.

The word 'early' has roots in Old English 'ærlīce', which means 'early, soon'. It has been used in the English language for centuries to describe things that happen before the expected or usual time. The concept of being early has always been valued in various cultures and societies, emphasizing the importance of punctuality and preparedness. Over time, 'early' has become a common word in everyday language, reflecting the significance of time and timeliness in human activities.


See also: earlier, earliest.

Word Frequency Rank

With position #262, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.