erst

[ urst ]

adverb

, Archaic.

1. before the present time; formerly.

erst

/ ɜːst /

adverb

1. long ago; formerly
2. at first

Word History and Origins

Origin of erst¹

before 1000; Middle English erest, Old English ǣrest (cognate with Old High German ērist, German erst ), equivalent to ǣr ere + -est -est ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of erst¹

Old English ǣrest earliest, superlative of ǣr early; see ere ; related to Old High German ērist, Dutch eerst

Example Sentences

Gentle-bosomed, kindly hearted, erst they wiped each other's eye, Now by common sorrow laden none for sister heaved a sigh!

From Project Gutenberg

To and fro and up and down in the house went the erst waiting-woman to my Lady Squander, carrying matters with a high hand.

From Project Gutenberg

But when she was upright on her feet, she hardened her heart, and went forth into the hall, and no less was her wonder than erst.

From Project Gutenberg

Yea, she said, as erst I spake, all things considered I deem that thou hast done much.

From Project Gutenberg

Then he spoke again, not mockingly as erst: A word before we end it, Thomas: thou hast hitherto done well by me, as I by thee.

From Project Gutenberg