Erstwhile

usgb/ˈɜːrstwaɪl/
adjective

Former or past.

My erstwhile friend and I haven't talked in years.
Visual representation of "erstwhile" - Former or past.

Often appears as...

  • erstwhile friend
  • erstwhile colleague

Usage tips

Formal

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "erstwhile"
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Time Shift

Indicates a shift in time to express that someone or something was, but is no longer, in a specific role or state.

Illustration for Time Shift
His erstwhile mentor retired last spring.
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Emotional Distance

Implies a psychological or emotional separation from something or someone in the past.

Illustration for Emotional Distance
She returned to her erstwhile home, feeling like a stranger.
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Narrative Change

Useful in storytelling to introduce a change in a character's life or situation.

Illustration for Narrative Change
The erstwhile villain redeemed himself in the story's climax.
Visual representation of the word "Erstwhile"

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