always

adverb

al·​ways ˈȯl-wēz 

-wəz, 

-(ˌ)wāz 

also ˈȯ-

1

: at all times : invariably

always smiling

2

: forever

will love you always

3

: at any rate : in any event

You can always try again if it doesn't work this time.

Synonyms of always

• constantly
• continually
• invariably
• consistently
• usually
• often

Examples of always in a Sentence

He always tries, but he doesn't always succeed.

It's always a pleasure to see you.

I can always tell when he's upset.

This area is always filled with tourists.

Things won't always go as planned.

You're always welcome to stay with us.

He has always been a good friend to me.

Life won't always be this easy.

I always thought they'd get married some day, but they never did.

Isn't that what you've always wanted?

Recent Examples on the Web

Natural light streams into the galleries, ensuring an atmosphere that's always serene and never stuffy. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Oct. 2026

Big Ten battles are almost always among the best of any college football weekend. — Outkick, FOXNews.com, 3 Oct. 2026

My voice is so low that a woman’s texture, or that range, always complements my voice well. — Chris Willman, Variety, 3 Oct. 2026

With its delicate foot strap and timeless appeal, the shoe style has always been loved for its versatility. — Anna Moeslein, Glamour, 3 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English alwayes, from alwey

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing always

• always-on
• as always
• the grass is always greener on the other side (of the fence)

Rhymes for always

• ablaze
• airways
• allays
• amaze
• anglaise
• appraise
• archways
• arrays
• ashtrays
• assays
• atpase
• ballets

Kids Definition

always

adverb

al·​ways ˈȯl-wēz  -wəz 

-ˌwāz

1

: at all times : invariably

always ready for a party

2

: throughout all time : forever

I'll remember you always