afterward

adverb

af·​ter·​ward ˈaf-tər-wərd 

ˈaf-tə-

variants or afterwards

ˈaf-tər-wərdz 

ˈaf-tə-

: at a later or succeeding time : subsequently, thereafter

found out about it long afterward

Synonyms

• after
• later
• latterly
• subsequently
• thereafter

Examples of afterward in a Sentence

He found out about it long afterward.

Afterward, she got a promotion.

Recent Examples on the Web

Coach Ben was always going to meet his end at some point in Season 3 because, really, this sets off a chain reaction of everything that comes afterward — that eventually leads to all of the things that people are looking for answers to. —Michaela Zee, Variety, 14 Mar. 2025

In some cases, they can be prevented by following shaving etiquette tips like using a lubricant, rinsing your razor, and caring for your skin afterward. —Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 14 Mar. 2025

Duterte’s daughter greets supporters His daughter, Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte, met with supporters outside the court before Friday’s hearing and then visited him in the court’s detention center afterward. —Mike Corder, Los Angeles Times, 14 Mar. 2025

Most importantly, he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 1994 and ceased all political activities soon afterward. —W. James Antle Iii, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 14 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English afterward "behind, in the rear, at a later time," going back to Old English æfterweard "behind, following," from æfter after entry 1 + -weard -ward entry 2; Middle English afterwardes, efterwardes "at a later time," from afterward + -es -s entry 1

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

afterward

adverb

af·​ter·​ward ˈaf-tə(r)-wərd 

variants or afterwards

-wərdz 

: at a later time