The meaning of EARLY is near the beginning of a period of time. How to use early in a sentence.

EARLY meaning: 1. near the beginning of a period of time, or before the usual, expected, or planned time: 2…. Learn more.

1. in or during the first part of a period of time, course of action, or series of events: early in the year. 2. in the early part of the morning: to get up early. 3. before the usual or appointed time; …

occurring in the first part of a period of time, a course of action, a series of events, etc.: an early hour of the day. occurring before the usual or appointed time: an early dinner.

early: Of or occurring near the beginning of a given series, period of time, or course of events.

early meaning, definition, what is early: in the first part of a period of time, e...: Learn more.

Oct 5, 2025 · You're early today! I don't usually see you before nine o'clock. The early guests sipped their punch and avoided each other's eyes.

There are 15 meanings listed in OED's entry for the word early, one of which is labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

Early definition: in or during the first part of a period of time, a course of action, a series of events, etc... See examples of EARLY used in a sentence.

Definition of early. English dictionary and integrated thesaurus for learners, writers, teachers, and students with advanced, intermediate, and beginner levels.