Yesterday — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

adverb noun /ˈye-stər-(ˌ)dā/ yes·ter·day

Meaning & Definition of Yesterday

Yesterday (adverb)

  1. on the day last past, on the day preceding today
  2. at a time not long past, only a short time ago

Yesterday (noun)

  1. the day last past, the day next before the present
  2. recent time, time not long past
  3. past time —usually used in plural

Yesterday (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. the events or experience of former times

    "my grandparents are always reminiscing about yesterday"

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Yesterday

The most common words with a similar meaning to Yesterday:

Near Antonyms of Yesterday

Origin & Etymology of Yesterday

Middle English yisterday, from Old English giestran dæg, from giestran yesterday + dæg day; akin to Old High German gestaron yesterday, Latin heri, Greek chthes

First known use: before 12th century

Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Yesterday

Words & Phrases Containing Yesterday

Frequently Asked Questions about Yesterday

What does "Yesterday" mean?

"Yesterday" means on the day last past, on the day preceding today. As an an adverb and a noun, it is defined as: on the day last past, on the day preceding today.

What is another word for "Yesterday"?

Other words for "Yesterday" include auld lang syne, history, past, yesteryear and yore. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Yesterday" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Yesterday"?

There are 13 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Yesterday". Common alternatives include auld lang syne, history, past, yesteryear and yore.

How do you use "Yesterday" in a sentence?

Examples of "Yesterday" in a sentence: "my grandparents are always reminiscing about yesterday".

Is "Yesterday" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Yesterday" can be used as an adverb and a noun, depending on the context.

Is "Yesterday" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?

As an A1-level word, "Yesterday" is typical of Cambridge A1 Movers (Young Learners), TOEIC Listening & Reading 120+.

How do you pronounce "Yesterday"?

"Yesterday" is pronounced /ˈye-stər-(ˌ)dā/ and divided into syllables as yes·ter·day.

What is the origin of the word "Yesterday"?

"Yesterday" comes from Middle English yisterday, from Old English giestran dæg, from giestran yesterday + dæg day; akin to Old High German gestaron yesterday, Latin heri, Greek chthes. First known use: before 12th century.