until

UK: ənˈtɪl | US: ənˈtɪl

Definition

  1. prep. up to the time of

  2. conj. up to the time when

Structure
un <up to>til <to>
Etymology

The word "until" originates from Old English "und tō" (un- "up to" + tō "to"), later merging with Old Norse "til" (meaning "to"). Over time, the components fused into "until," retaining the sense of a temporal endpoint. The dual Germanic influence (Old English and Old Norse) reflects its shared usage in medieval England.

Examples

  1. Wait here until I return.

  2. The store is open until midnight.

  3. She didn’t leave until the rain stopped.

  4. Until now, no one has solved the puzzle.

  5. He worked until sunset.