Pronunciation: [ɪɹˈɛnə͡ʊ] (IPA) 
The word "Erenow" is spelled with the prefix "ere" meaning "before" and the suffix "-now" indicating present time. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ɛrənaʊ/. The first syllable "ere" is pronounced with the vowel sound /ɛ/ as in "bet" and the second syllable "-now" is pronounced with the diphthong /naʊ/ as in "now". "Erenow" means "before now" and is often used in old English literature.
"Erenow" is an archaic adverb used to denote a time or occurrence that happened in the past, particularly prior to the present moment or a certain point in time. It combines the words "ere" (meaning before) and "now" (indicating the current or present time).
The term can be found in historical literature and poetry, but is rarely used in contemporary language. Its usage is predominantly found in British and Scottish dialects. Its archaic nature may make it unfamiliar to modern readers and speakers.
The term "erenow" often functions as a literary device, allowing writers to evoke a sense of antiquity or convey a setting or event that is set in a bygone era. It can be used to describe events, circumstances, or conditions that were in existence before the current time, highlighting historical context or providing background information.
For example, a sentence incorporating "erenow" could be: "Erenow, in ancient civilizations, humans depended on agriculture for their sustenance." Here, the term is employed to emphasize that the reliance on farming is a practice that predates the current period being discussed.
Overall, "erenow" is a dated adverb that has largely fallen out of common usage, but may still be encountered in literature to describe events or conditions occurring before the present or a specified moment in time.
Before this time.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "erenow" is derived from the Middle English phrase "er now", which literally translates to "before now". It combines the Old English word "ær" meaning "before" and the Middle English word "now" meaning "now". The combination of these two words evolved over time to create "erenow" as a single word.
