adverb
soon
SOON/suːn/
After a short time.
The baker waits by the oven, ready to remove the rolls soon.
Etymology
Old English sona meant 'immediately,' allowing no delay. Its meaning later relaxed to 'within a short time,' so modern soon promises nearness rather than instant action.
In context
They went out soon after luncheon, and only returned an hour ago.
More examples
- I'll call you soon.
- She soon found a new job.
- Can we meet sooner?
Forms
soon · sooner · soonest
Similar words
- shortly
- Often sounds more formal when describing a short wait.
- before long
- Emphasizes that little time passes before something happens.