Meaning 'formerly' or 'previous'; used to describe something that was true in the past but is no longer true.
Combination of 'erst' (formerly) and 'while' (time), literally meaning 'at a former time.' The compound formed in Middle English as a more elaborate way to express the concept of 'once upon a time.'
Erstwhile is the sophisticated cousin of 'erst'—it sounds more refined and is actually still used occasionally in modern English, especially in legal or formal writing, whereas 'erst' is purely archaic.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.