: that is to be : future
usually used postpositively and often in combination
a bride-to-be

Examples of to-be in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But unlike the groom-to-be's regular lifestyle, minimal content from his ceremony is expected to be shared. Ashlyn Robinette, PEOPLE, 8 Jan. 2026 Keep shopping Amazon’s massive Gap selection, which spans even more denim styles, as well as other soon-to-be staples. Annie Blackman, InStyle, 8 Jan. 2026 At the time, the livestock, breeders and students from Colorado Agricultural College (later Colorado State University) also began arriving with their soon-to-be champion animals, strengthening the show’s youth connections and beginning a century-plus of close partnerships on education and research. John Wenzel, Denver Post, 7 Jan. 2026 Alternatively, some to-be-weds are also keeping their VIPs out of the getting-ready suite. Jamie Cuccinelli, Martha Stewart, 5 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for to-be

Word History

First Known Use

1594, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of to-be was in 1594

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Cite this Entry

“To-be.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/to-be. Accessed 12 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

to-be

adjective
tə-ˈbē
: that is to be : future
often used in combination
a bride-to-be
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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