\ ˈwu̇d-ˈbē 
\
\Definition of would-be
disparaging
: desiring, intending, professing, or having the potential to be
a would-be actor
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More Definitions for would-be
would-be
adjectiveEnglish Language Learners Definition of would-be
—used to describe someone who hopes to be a particular person or type of person
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Time Traveler for would-be
The first known use of would-be was in 1647
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