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by-and-by

noun
\ ˌbī-ən-ˈbī How to pronounce by-and-by (audio) \

Definition of by-and-by

 (Entry 1 of 2)

: a future time or occasion

by and by

adverb

Definition of by and by (Entry 2 of 2)

: before long, soon
Synonyms & Antonyms Example Sentences Learn More about by-and-by

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Synonyms & Antonyms for by-and-by

Synonyms: Noun

future, futurity, hereafter, offing, tomorrow

Synonyms: Adverb

anon, before long, directly, momentarily, presently, shortly, soon

Antonyms: Noun

past

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Examples of by-and-by in a Sentence

Adverb

 we'll get under way by and by

Recent Examples on the Web: Adverb

 But by and by he allows himself to be coaxed into the fold. — Michael Friedrich, The New Republic, "Spirit of the Strip Mall," 24 May 2018 Robert Frost would not gaze off into the snowy world, telling this tale with a sigh, by and by, not yet. — Mary O’connell , Longreads, "Writing the Monsignor," 18 Sep. 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'by-and-by.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of by-and-by

Noun

1591, in the meaning defined above

Adverb

1526, in the meaning defined above

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More from Merriam-Webster on by-and-by

Rhyming Dictionary: Words that rhyme with by-and-by

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for by-and-by

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