The meaning of EARLY is near the beginning of a period of time. How to use early in a sentence. EARLY definition: 1.

Understanding the Context

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.

Key Insights

2. in the early part of the morning: to get up early. 3. before the usual or appointed time; ahead of time. 4.

Final Thoughts

far back in time: The Greeks early learned to navigate. early meaning, definition, what is early: in the first part of a period of time, e...: Learn more. early | meaning of early in Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English ... 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, adj. & n.