early
UK: ˈɜːli | US: ˈɜːrli
adj. happening or done before the usual or expected time
adj. near the beginning of a period of time, process, or series
adv. before the usual or expected time
adv. near the beginning of a period of time or event
The word "early" originates from Old English ǣrlīce, combining ǣr (before) + -līce (suffix forming adverbs). It originally meant "soon" or "before the expected time," later expanding to describe proximity to the beginning of a period. The root ǣr is tied to comparative time concepts in Germanic languages, reflecting a logical progression from "prior in time" to "occurring at the start."
She arrived early to secure a good seat.
The early bird catches the worm.
In the early stages of the project, we faced many challenges.
He left work early due to illness.
Early morning walks are refreshing.