Happening or done before the usual or expected time; near the beginning of a period.
From Old English 'ǣrlīce' meaning 'soon, quickly', from 'ǣr' meaning 'before' or 'sooner'. Over time it shifted toward meaning 'at the beginning' or 'before the usual time'.
Early originally meant more like 'sooner' than 'on time', which is why 'early bird' feels like someone beating the clock. Cultures often praise 'earliness' because it signals preparation and control over time.
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