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 of afterward

• 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

Then there are thousands of more personal, individual declarations of independence that came afterward — from people who had been enslaved and used their stories, writing and activism to demand freedom and recognition of their humanity. — Reginald David, Hartford Courant, 16 Aug. 2026

The objective is to establish manufacturing processes and supply chains alongside the development of the quantum technology itself, rather than waiting until a more advanced processor is ready and then attempting to industrialize it afterward. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 16 Aug. 2026

Asked afterward whether the clash with France and the controversy with Turk changed his assessment of the challenge ahead, Bartos suggested the real battle had barely begun. — Bethany Mandel, The Washington Examiner, 16 Aug. 2026

These polished flats or low-heeled shoes are much more versatile for a trip that may involve cobblestones, stairs, and hours on your feet, while still looking appropriate for a restaurant afterward. — Alesandra Dubin, Travel + Leisure, 16 Aug. 2026

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