an end

adverb

1
archaic : to the end : continuously
2
obsolete : upright, endways
3
: directly ahead : lengthwise

Word History

Etymology

Middle English an ende, on ende, from an (alteration of on), on + ende end

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of an end was in the 15th century

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near an end

Cite this Entry

“An end.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/an%20end. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!