by the way

phrase

Synonyms of by the way next

next

: by way of interjection or digression : incidentally

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1520, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of by the way was circa 1520

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Browse Nearby Words

by the time

by the way

by the wayside

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Cite this Entry

Style

“By the way.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/by%20the%20way. Accessed 13 Mar. 2026.

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Last Updated: 24 Feb 2026 - Definition revised

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