past

Definition

The period of time that has already happened, in contrast to the present and the future.

Etymology

From Middle English passed, past participle of passen (“to pass, to go by”), whence Modern English pass.

Example Sentences

• "a book about a time machine that can transport people back into the past"
• "1830, Daniel Webster, a speech The past, at least, is secure."
• "The present is only intelligible in the light of the past, often a very remote past indeed."

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