adjective
quondam
KWON-dum/ˈkwɑndəm/
Having been something in the past but no longer being so.
The quondam boxing champion applauds the younger boxer now wearing his former title belt.
Etymology
Latin cum, “when,” combined with -dam to form quondam, “formerly.” English turned this expression of past time into an adjective describing someone or something that once held a particular role or status.
In context
and quondam lovers by the score.
More examples
- Her quondam allies now oppose her plans.
- The quondam courthouse now serves as a library.
- He invites a quondam business partner to dinner.
Similar words
- former
- The everyday choice, without quondam's formal or literary tone.
- erstwhile
- Similarly literary, often describing a past role or relationship.