erstwhile

1. 1
   formeradjective

   Used to describe what a person or thing once was, but no longer is.

   The erstwhile owner of the house left a box of old letters in the attic.

   The two erstwhile enemies are now good friends.

   UsagePut it before the noun: the erstwhile owner. For plainer English, use former.

   Similarformer, previous, onetime, earlier, prior

   Oppositecurrent, present

   Note
2. 2
   in the pastadverbliterary

   At a time in the past, before now.

   The bookstore, erstwhile a small church, still has its old windows.

   The town, erstwhile known as Mill Creek, changed its name long ago.

   UsageFor plainer English, use formerly instead.

   Similarformerly, once, previously

   Note
3. 3
   adjectivenonstandard

   Respected or deserving honor, but many people say using the word with that meaning is a mistake.

   If you're for one of my erstwhile opponents, that's O.K. Just don't work too hard.

   1999, Frank Bruni, quoting George W. Bush

   UsageTo praise someone, say respected.

   Similaresteemed, respected, worthy, honorable, distinguished

   Note

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