adv
syne
syn
Syne (adv) means Afterward; then (chiefly Scots and archaic). Example: “We'll meet again, and syne we'll talk it over.”
adv
1
Afterward; then (chiefly Scots and archaic).
"We'll meet again, and syne we'll talk it over."
prep
1
Since; ago (chiefly Scots and archaic).
"It has been many a year syne we last spoke."
How to use syne
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn old Scots word for "since" or "ago" — most familiar today from the song "Auld Lang Syne," meaning roughly "old times long since past."
When to use it
Almost never used in modern standard English outside of Scots dialect and the phrase "auld lang syne."
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like syne.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
We'll meet again, and _____ we'll talk it over.
Etymology
From Middle English syne, a shortened form of "sithen," meaning "since."
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for syne
See all rhymes for syne →Frequently asked questions
What does “syne” mean?
The word “syne” means afterward; then (chiefly Scots and archaic). In plain terms, an old Scots word for "since" or "ago" — most familiar today from the song "Auld Lang Syne," meaning roughly "old times long since past.".
How do you pronounce “syne”?
“Syne” is pronounced syn (/saɪn/ in IPA).
How do you use “syne” in a sentence?
Here is “syne” used in a sentence: “We'll meet again, and syne we'll talk it over.”
What is another word for “syne”?
Words with a similar meaning to “syne” include followingly.
What part of speech is “syne”?
Depending on how it is used, “syne” can be an adverb and a preposition.
Where does the word “syne” come from?
The word “syne” comes from Middle English. From Middle English syne, a shortened form of "sithen," meaning "since.".
How many meanings does “syne” have?
“Syne” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: afterward; then (chiefly Scots and archaic).
