former
UK[ˈfɔːmə]US[ˈfɔːrmər]
adj
of or in an earlier time; having been previously
adj
having previously been a particular thing
n
the first of two people or things just mentioned
Etymology
The word 'former' originates from the Old English 'forma', meaning "first," which evolved from the Proto-Germanic comparative form frumizô, signifying "more foremost." This Germanic root is connected to the pervasive Proto-Indo-European per-, a root associated with concepts of being in front, passing through, and primacy. Over time, the comparative suffix '-er' was added to the base 'form', solidifying its meaning as "more first" or "earlier in a sequence." This etymological journey from a concept of spatial/temporal priority to its modern abstract meanings—referring to a previous state or the first of two items—illustrates a clear semantic logic of precedence and anteriority.
Analysis
The word 'former' is a comparative adjective derived from the Middle English 'forme', meaning "first," which itself comes from the Old English 'forma'. Its root is Proto-Germanic frumô, meaning "foremost, first," and can be traced further back to the Proto-Indo-European root per-, with a core meaning of "forward, through, first."
Examples
In former times, this building was a bustling market.
She is a former champion of the tournament.
We can visit either the museum or the park; I prefer the former.