before Definition

1. Earlier than something.

Example: before noon
Thesaurus: preceding, prior to, antecedent to, ahead of; Antonym: after, behind.
2. Ahead of or in front of someone or something.
3. In the presence of, or for the attention of, someone.

Example: The question before us is a complex one
4. Rather than or in preference to someone or something.

Example: Never put money before friendship
5. formal or literary
In the face of something.
Example: draw back before the blast

1. Earlier than the time when something occurs.

Example: Tidy up before Mum gets back
2. Rather than or in preference to doing something.

Example: I'd die before I'd surrender

1. Previously; in the past.

Thesaurus: previously, up to now, up until now, earlier, sooner, since, heretofore, formerly, sooner, antecedently, ere; Antonym: now, in the future.
2. now rare or formal
In front; ahead.
Example: saints who have gone before