now and then

adverb

: from time to time : occasionally
now and then we go off to the country

Examples of now and then in a Sentence

we do go to the library now and then, but not as often as we should
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.
When to See a Healthcare Provider A little heartburn now and then doesn't usually require a visit to a healthcare provider. Ann Pietrangelo, Verywell Health, 4 Sep. 2025 That works out to be a much more manageable year and a half wait between now and then, pretty much a full year less than the previous wait between seasons 1 and 2. Paul Tassi, Forbes.com, 3 Sep. 2025 Between now and then, Whitmer and the two legislative chambers must agree on a single budget plan. Paul Egan, Freep.com, 28 Aug. 2025 But even the most devoted New Yorkers need a break now and then—and that's where a quick weekend escape comes in. Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 25 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for now and then

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of now and then was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Now and then.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/now%20and%20then. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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