: 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.
As Grace looks on in horror, her soon-to-be husband strangles Ursula and snaps her neck. Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 20 Mar. 2026 Neighbors, business owners and a few officers from the city's 5th precinct filled a soon-to-be restaurant. Ashley Grams, CBS News, 20 Mar. 2026 Her soon-to-be husband waited for her where the arroyo opened to the road. Literary Hub, 18 Mar. 2026 Given the to-be senior’s 37 games of experience, he won’t be rushed back for spring ball. Andy Greder, Twin Cities, 18 Mar. 2026 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 23 Mar. 2026.

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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