: 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.
This movie retells my story of finding strength and fighting for accountability after the tragic loss of my husband-to-be and the father of my children. Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 22 Oct. 2025 Stewart referenced her collaborations with Cabana’s Martina Mondadori, Aerin’s Aerin Lauder and Goop’s Gwyneth Paltrow, and her soon-to-be redesign of The Hedges Inn. Rosemary Feitelberg, Footwear News, 21 Oct. 2025 Last Rites also ends with Wilson’s Ed essentially passing the torch to his soon-to-be son-in-law, Tony Spera (Ben Hardy), followed by the nuptials between Tony and the Warrens’ daughter, Judy (Mia Tomlinson). Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 20 Oct. 2025 Through the 2005 to 2014 seasons, his tough-running style led to five Pro Bowl nods, an All-Pro nod, and a potential soon-to-be Hall of Fame nod. James Brizuela, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 Oct. 2025 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 25 Oct. 2025.

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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