formerly

[fawr-mer-lee]

adverb

1. in time past; in an earlier period or age; previously.

   a custom formerly observed.

2. Obsolete.,  in time just past; just now.

formerly

/ ˈfɔːməlɪ /

adverb

1. at or in a former time; in the past

2. obsolete,  in the immediate past; just now

Word History and Origins

Origin of formerly¹

First recorded in 1580–90; former ¹ + -ly

Example Sentences

A two-story Craftsman ADU in Hollywood — formerly a rickety garage — is designed to provide office space, a gym and housing while preserving a lush garden.

From Los Angeles Times

“We have guys from motorcycle clubs. People who were formerly homeless on the streets that we served are now on the other side of the table being stories of inspiration,” Baruch said.

From Los Angeles Times

As founder and chief executive, Roberts has built the firm - formerly known as Appliances Online - up from scratch to an employer of some 3,000 people in the UK.

From BBC

Stringer formerly took his workshops to vintage stores and coffee shops across L.A.

From Los Angeles Times

Homeland Security touted information obtained through drones in a post on X, formerly Twitter, on June 10.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• already 
• earlier www.thesaurus.com
• heretofore 
• once