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Dictionaryalready
adverb

already

Before now or before the time expected.

The guests are already waiting when the restaurant opens its doors.

Etymology
alEnglishwholly
+readyEnglishprepared

All intensifies ready in the older expression meaning wholly ready. The combined word developed a time sense, presenting something as completed or true by the time under discussion.

More examples

  • I have already sent the documents you requested.
  • At six, she can already read simple chapter books.
  • The paint is already dry enough for another coat.

Similar words

previously
Refers to an earlier time without emphasizing unexpected earliness.
yet
In questions, asks whether an expected event has happened.