at the earliest
idiom
—used to indicate the earliest possible time when something will happen or be done
The job will not be finished until next year at the (very) earliest.
Examples of at the earliest in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Data proves why early detection matters Fewer than 1 in 6 lung cancer patients are diagnosed at the earliest, most treatable stage, according to the Lung Cancer Foundation of America.
—
CBS News, 21 Nov. 2025
The Scout Travler and Terra were announced last year, but aren’t expected to go into production until 2027 at the earliest (the Blythewood factory is still under construction).
—Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 18 Nov. 2025
Many prenatal providers won't schedule patients until eight or nine weeks of pregnancy - at the earliest.
—NPR, 11 Nov. 2025
However, it is expected December 2025 at the earliest.
—Griff Griffin, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Nov. 2025
See All Example Sentences for at the earliest
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.
CBS News, 21 Nov. 2025
The Scout Travler and Terra were announced last year, but aren’t expected to go into production until 2027 at the earliest (the Blythewood factory is still under construction).
—Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 18 Nov. 2025
Many prenatal providers won't schedule patients until eight or nine weeks of pregnancy - at the earliest.
—NPR, 11 Nov. 2025
However, it is expected December 2025 at the earliest.
—Griff Griffin, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Nov. 2025
See All Example Sentences for at the earliest
Cite this Entry
“At the earliest.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/at%20the%20earliest. Accessed 5 Dec. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share