beforehand

be-fore-hand · adverb

imported

Definitions

adverb

  1. 1.

    Before an action or event takes place; in advance.

  2. 2.

    Earlier than expected or required.

  3. 3.

    [rare]Done or occurring before something else.

Related words

Antonyms: afterward, later
See also: advance, ahead, before, prepare
Synonyms: ahead of time, earlier, in advance, previously

Etymology

From Middle English biforhand, from before + hand (indicating "at hand" or "ready").