often

of·ten

adverb \ˈȯ-fən, ÷ˈȯf-tən\

Definition of OFTEN

: many times : frequently

Examples of OFTEN

1. They go out to dinner fairly often.
2. How often do you call your mother?
3. The condition often returns even after treatment with antibiotics.
4. I often take a walk during my lunch break.
5. He travels more often than I do.
6. The disease is diagnosed most often in children.
7. They seem to be getting into arguments more and more often.
8. It's not often that I get to enjoy a day off.
9. Water the plants often enough to keep the soil moist.

Origin of OFTEN

Middle English, alteration of oft

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to OFTEN

Synonyms

again and again, constantly, continually, frequently, hourly, much, oft, oftentimes (or ofttimes), over and over, repeatedly, a lot, time after time, time and again

Antonyms

infrequently, little, rarely, seldom

Related Words

always, consistently, continuingly, continuously, night and day, perpetually, unceasingly, uninterruptedly; afresh, again, anew; commonly, habitually, ordinarily, regularly, routinely; intermittently, periodically, recurrently; generally, usually

Near Antonyms

now, now and then, occasionally, sometimes, sporadically; ne'er, never; once

Rhymes with OFTEN

coffin, dauphin, soften