adj
former
FAW-muh
adj
1
Existing or happening before now; previous.
"The former president gave a speech at the ceremony."
"She reconnected with a former classmate online."
2
Referring to the first of two things just mentioned.
"Of the two plans, the former is far cheaper."
How to Use Former
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDescribes someone or something that used to hold a role or existed earlier, or the first-named of two options.
Common mistake
"Former" pairs with "latter" when referring back to two items already listed.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
former president
former self
the former
Word Forms
formers plural
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The _____ president gave a speech at the ceremony.
Etymology
From Middle English former, the comparative of forme ("first"), from Old English forma — related to "first" and "fore."