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

Both men sat in opposite corners afterward before Reigns walked to the center and offered a fist, and Rollins met it. — Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 3 Aug. 2026

Two hours with nothing required of you produces something to talk about afterward, without any pressure to talk during. — Catherina Gioino, Fortune, 2 Aug. 2026

The Sacramento City Teachers Association released a response shortly afterward, with President Nikki Davis-Milevsky slamming the decision and urging the district to appeal the rescission to State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond. — Chaewon Chung updated July 31, Sacbee.com, 1 Aug. 2026

The important thing to know is that these techniques should only be used if your pet is truly choking – not simply coughing or gagging – and your pet should still be seen by a veterinarian afterward, even if the object is removed. — Cathy M. Rosenthal, Chicago Tribune, 1 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