ALREADY

Pronunciation (US):

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 Dictionary entry overview: What does already mean? 

• ALREADY (adverb)
  The adverb ALREADY has 1 sense:

1. prior to a specified or implied time

  Familiarity information: ALREADY used as an adverb is very rare.

 Dictionary entry details 

• ALREADY (adverb)

Sense 1

Meaning:

Prior to a specified or implied time

Context example:

she has already graduated

 Context examples 

It chanced that when Martin was leaving, he overtook Brissenden already half down the walk to the street.

(Martin Eden, by Jack London)

I found they had already applied ladders to the walls of the apartment, and were well provided with buckets, but the water was at some distance.

(Gulliver's Travels into several remote nations of the world, by Jonathan Swift)

I have already looked into the matter, and have come, as I think, within sight of my solution.

(The Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes, by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle)

Twice already the Wicked Witch had used the charm of the Cap. Once was when she had made the Winkies her slaves, and set herself to rule over their country.

(The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, by L. Frank Baum)

You simpleton, said the eldest, you are always afraid; have you forgotten how many kings’ sons have already watched in vain?

(Fairy Tales, by The Brothers Grimm)

If you already have a business, you may take on a new client or project that leads you down a new pioneering and entrepreneurial path.

(AstrologyZone.com, by Susan Miller)

She had already flown at Dennin and gripped his throat, when Hans sprang to his feet.

(Love of Life and Other Stories, by Jack London)

I have already arranged what is to occur.

(The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle)

I smiled, and said:—I was ill, I have had a shock; but you have cured me already.

(Dracula, by Bram Stoker)

I had already remarked that his language was excellent, marred with an occasional slight inaccuracy.

(The Sea-Wolf, by Jack London)