theretofore

[ thair-tuh-fawr, -fohr ]

adverb

1. before or until that time.

theretofore

/ ˌðɛətʊˈfɔː /

adverb

1. formal.
   before that time; previous to that

Word History and Origins

Origin of theretofore¹

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

Example Sentences

My confidence had reached a height theretofore unseen.

From Los Angeles Times

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

What I got instead was a demented funhouse fantasia of fear, real fear, the kind of immediate visually – sourced fear completely alien to a child theretofore frightened only by the figments of his own imagination.

From The Guardian

“I Dream of Jeannie” did not dazzle with its dopey jokes; the draw was fantasy and the thrill of theretofore unseen visual effects.

From New York Times

If nothing else, the results of the past three years, which follow several other failed attempts to turnaround the business theretofore, should demonstrate to you that turning around this business is extremely difficult.

From Wall Street Journal