theretofore

American  

[thair-tuh-fawr, -fohr] / ˌðɛər təˈfɔr, -ˈfoʊr /

adverb

1. before or until that time.

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theretofore British  

/ ˌðɛətʊˈfɔː /

adverb

1. formal before that time; previous to that

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Etymology

Origin of theretofore

First recorded in 1300–50, theretofore is from Middle English ther tofore. See there, heretofore

Example Sentences

Moreover, Adams and other historians say, the case pushed a theretofore ambivalent Lincoln toward an anti-slavery stance.

From Washington Times • Feb. 14, 2021

It was the Japanese idea that objects — vases, dishware, vanity boxes and other items theretofore considered strictly utilitarian — were themselves art.

From New York Times • Feb. 11, 2021

When my car turned the last switchback into the valley toward Area 51, the car radio, theretofore static, suddenly started blasting Smetana’s Má Vlast in eerie, crystal-perfect sound.

From The Guardian • Sep. 24, 2019

More importantly, the show has at this point trained us to believe in Thackeray's ability to eventually prevail when it comes to medical treatments for theretofore incurable ailments, and his addiction is treated no differently.

From The Verge • Oct. 15, 2015

Originally the Muslim faith was a creed of sobriety that included a deference to women theretofore unknown.

From Historia Amoris: A History of Love, Ancient and Modern by Saltus, Edgar