often

adverb

of·​ten ˈȯf-tən  ˈȯ-fən 

: many times : frequently

are often puzzled and sometimes annoyed by the ways of other peoples

—W. A. Parker

Synonyms

• frequently
• constantly
• repeatedly
• always

Examples of often in a Sentence

They go out to dinner fairly often.

How often do you call your mother?

The condition often returns even after treatment with antibiotics.

I often take a walk during my lunch break.

He travels more often than I do.

The disease is diagnosed most often in children.

They seem to be getting into arguments more and more often.

It's not often that I get to enjoy a day off.

Water the plants often enough to keep the soil moist.

Recent Examples on the Web

In a world that often demands endurance but not reflection, what does true wellness look like for Black men? —Essence, 8 July 2025

Limited Warning Time and Rapid Onset Many of the flash floods happened very quickly, often within minutes of rainfall intensifying. —Hannah Parry amanda Castro, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 July 2025

Stripping it out this way often strips other characteristics of the beverage, leaving them tasting stale, which is why juices, sugars and botanicals are often added afterwards. —Andrew Watman, Forbes.com, 7 July 2025

But showing up authentically and with intention often leaves the strongest impression. —Rolling Stone Culture Council, Rolling Stone, 7 July 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, alteration of oft

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing often

• all too often
• as often as not
• every so often
• more often than not

Rhymes for often

• boffin
• coffin
• offen
• soften
• tryptophan

Kids Definition

often

adverb

of·​ten ˈȯ-fən  ˈȯf-tən 

: many times : frequently