whilom

[ hwahy-luhm, wahy- ]

adjective

1. former; erstwhile:

   whilom friends.

adverb

1. at one time.

whilom

/ ˈwaɪləm /

adverb

1. formerly; once

adjective

1. prenominal one-time; former

Word History and Origins

Origin of whilom¹

before 900; Middle English; Old English hwīlum at times, dative plural of hwīl while (noun)

Word History and Origins

Origin of whilom¹

Old English hwīlum, dative plural of hwīl while ; related to Old High German hwīlōm, German weiland of old

Example Sentences

His whilom arrogance was all fallen from him; he wore instead an air of extreme contrition.

From Project Gutenberg

He was sorry to hear that his whilom chums, the "captain" and "lieutenant," were ill.

From Project Gutenberg

Ygg whilom stuck a sleep-thorn in the robe of the maid who would heroes choose.

From Project Gutenberg

He was not doubtful of me, not then, but of human nature in general; that whilom noble edifice was tottering.

From Project Gutenberg

"Nay, but Master Gideon slept whilom upon his post," continued Gerald, mimicking him.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• departed
• erstwhile
• old