The meaning of FORMER is coming before in time. How to use former in a sentence. Synonym Discussion of Former.

FORMER definition: preceding in time; prior or earlier. See examples of former used in a sentence.

You use former in front of a noun to indicate that the person you are talking about is no longer the thing referred to by the noun. For example, the former chairman of a company used to be the chairman, …

FORMER meaning: 1. of or in an earlier time; before the present time or in the past: 2. the first of two people…. Learn more.

Definition of former adjective in Oxford Advanced American Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

being the first of two: Our former manufacturing process was too costly. being the first mentioned of two (distinguished from latter): The former suggestion was preferred to the latter.

Former refers to something that came at an earlier time, or before something else. For example, someone who believes in reincarnation might wonder about their former life — or even lives — …

Feb 1, 2026 · Noun former (plural formers) Someone who forms something; a maker; a creator or founder.

Former definition: One that forms; a maker or creator.

The word 'former' originated from Middle English, from Old English 'forma', meaning 'first, foremost'. It has been used in the English language for centuries to refer to something or someone that existed or …