ever definition - Dictionary

Dictionary

ev·er [ évvər ]

adverb

Definition:

1. at any time: used for emphasis in indicating any time in the past or future

This is the most fascinating book I've ever read.

Will I ever see you again?

It's his biggest blunder ever.

2. used to indicate surprise: used for emphasis to indicate surprise, shock, or incomprehension at something

Where ever can it be?

3. increasingly: to an increasing degree ( formal )

The questions were becoming ever more technical.

4. used as intensifier: used to emphasize a particular quality, especially to express enthusiasm ( informal )

Was I ever glad to get home!

5. always: showing at all times a particular quality

He is ever anxious to please.

[ Old English ǣfre< Indo-European, "eternity"]

ev·er so U.K. used for emphasis (informal)

He's ever so friendly.

Word Usage


	The best book ever: Some people object to this use of ever because they maintain that ever should include the future as well as the past. However, the future can rarely be accounted for, and the idiom is well established in conversational use, although it would not normally be used in more formal spoken or written English.