See Also: erst(dictionary)

erst (iou)



erst adverb & adjective.

A. adverb.
Earliest, first in order of time. OE-LME.
In the first place, in preference to doing something else. OE-E19.
At first, initially. OE-E17.
Sooner; before a specified time or event. ME-L16.
a. Long ago, formerly, of old. arch. exc. poet. ME.
b. Recently; not long ago. L15-L18.
B. adjective. Occurring first in time. OE-ME.
Phrases: at erst (now, or then) and not before; at once.