afterward

adverb

af·​ter·​ward ˈaf-tər-wərd 

ˈaf-tə-

variants or afterwards

ˈaf-tər-wərdz 

ˈaf-tə-

: at a later or succeeding time : subsequently, thereafter

found out about it long afterward

Synonyms

• later
• after
• thereafter

Examples of afterward in a Sentence

He found out about it long afterward.

Afterward, she got a promotion.

Recent Examples on the Web

Wash hands with soap and warm water immediately afterward. —Katie Wiseman, IndyStar, 17 Oct. 2025

In speaking with some voters afterward, Allen was struck by several who had misperceptions of aspects of CTE. —Kansas City Star, 17 Oct. 2025

In the years immediately afterward, the two ladies reportedly unfollowed and re-followed one another on Instagram a few times, sparking rumors of bad blood. —Hannah Dailey, Billboard, 16 Oct. 2025

Those interested can meet for coffee or brunch afterward. —La Jolla Light, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English afterward "behind, in the rear, at a later time," going back to Old English æfterweard "behind, following," from æfter after entry 1 + -weard -ward entry 2; Middle English afterwardes, efterwardes "at a later time," from afterward + -es -s entry 1

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

afterward

adverb

af·​ter·​ward ˈaf-tə(r)-wərd 

variants or afterwards

-wərdz 

: at a later time