aforehand

1 of 2

adverb

afore·​hand

ə-ˈfȯr-ˌhand

chiefly dialectal

: beforehand

aforehand

2 of 2

adjective

afore·​hand

ə-ˈfȯr-ˌhand

chiefly dialectal

: ready for the future

sagacity that is aforehand with events

—Samuel Richardson

Word History

Etymology

Adverb

Middle English aforhonde, aforhand, from afor afore + hond, hand hand entry 1

Adjective

derivative of aforehand entry 1

First Known Use

Adverb

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Adjective

1533, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Rhymes for aforehand

• analysand
• misunderstand
• ampersand
• beforehand
• behindhand
• bottomland
• contraband
• countermand
• dixieland
• fairyland
• fatherland
• firebrand