1
: existing or occurring at a later time
We cannot foretell future events.
… the chance meeting one day of your future spouse …—Robert W. Lucky
2
: that is to be
specifically
: existing after death
On religion (by which he chiefly means Christianity), [philosopher Michael] Oakeshott is subtle. … He deprecates the doctrine of a future life, not as being impossible, but because it distracts people from the unique importance of the life they have. —Charles Moore
That a belief in a future life must have a powerful influence in determining the nature of the present, there can be no reasonable doubt. —Joseph B. Gross
3
: of, relating to, or constituting a verb tense expressive of time yet to come
a verb in the future tense
"will" and "shall" are used as future auxiliaries
1
a
: time that is to come
promised to do better in the future
b
: what is going to happen
We cannot know the future.
2
: an expectation of advancement or progressive development
There's no future for you here.
3
: something (such as a bulk commodity) bought for future acceptance or sold for future delivery
—usually used in plural
grain futures
4
a
: the future tense of a language
b
: a verb form in the future tense
Cite this Entry
“Future.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/future. Accessed 26 Jul. 2026.
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