Quondam: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ฐ๏ธ
quondam
[ หkwษndษm ]
former time
The term 'quondam' is an archaic adjective that means 'former' or 'of former times.' It is used to describe something that has previously existed or been in a specific state. Though largely obsolete in modern usage, it may appear in historical texts or discussions about the past. Its connotation often carries a sense of nostalgia or reminiscent quality. As it is not commonly used in contemporary language, it has become rather specialized.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The quondam king ruled with an iron fist.
- She returned to her quondam home after many years.
- They spoke of their quondam friendship with fondness.
Translations
Translations of the word "quondam" in other languages:
๐ต๐น antigo
๐ฎ๐ณ เคชเฅเคฐเฅเคต
๐ฉ๐ช ehemalig
๐ฎ๐ฉ dahulu
๐บ๐ฆ ะบะพะปะธัะฝัะน
๐ต๐ฑ dawny
๐ฏ๐ต ใใคใฆใฎ
๐ซ๐ท ancien
๐ช๐ธ antiguo
๐น๐ท eski
๐ฐ๐ท ์
๐ธ๐ฆ ุณุงุจู
๐จ๐ฟ bรฝvalรฝ
๐ธ๐ฐ bรฝvalรฝ
๐จ๐ณ ่ฟๅป็
๐ธ๐ฎ nekdanji
๐ฎ๐ธ fyrr
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะฑาฑััะฝาั
๐ฌ๐ช แงแแคแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ keรงmiล
๐ฒ๐ฝ antiguo
Etymology
The word 'quondam' originates from the Latin term 'quondam,' which means 'formerly' or 'once.' This Latin root is derived from the word 'quando,' meaning 'when,' indicating a reference to a time that has passed. The term was integrated into English during the late Middle Ages and was primarily used in literary and formal contexts. Over time, its usage diminished, leading to its current status as an archaic term. Today, 'quondam' is mostly encountered in historical literature, academic discussions, or as a stylistic choice in poetry, evoking a sense of the past. Its rarity in everyday language has made it a niche term, often appreciated by those with an interest in etymology or historical linguistics.