How Do You Spell PAST?

Pronunciation: [pˈast] (IPA)

The word "past" is spelled with four letters and has two sounds. The first sound is a /p/ sound which is made by pressing your lips together and then releasing them, as in the word "pat". The second sound is an /ɑː/ sound which is made by opening your mouth wide and lowering your tongue, as in the word "car". When pronunciation of these two sounds come together, they create the word "past" which refers to something that has already happened or occurred in the past.

Meaning and Definition
Top Common Misspellings
Other Common Misspellings
Etymology
Idioms
Similar spelling words
Plural
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PAST Meaning and Definition

  1. Past, as a noun, refers to the time that has already happened or is no longer present, extending from the point of reference to any moment before the present. It includes events, actions, and experiences that occurred in earlier periods or historical eras. The past often retains significance as it forms the foundation upon which the present is built. Historically, it refers to all events, circumstances, and phenomena that have unfolded before the current period.

    As an adjective, past describes something that has already occurred or existed, rather than something happening presently. It denotes a condition or state that is previous or former. It implies that the object or subject referred to has concluded its existence, gone through a transformation, or is out of date.

    Furthermore, past serves as an adverb, highlighting that an action or event occurred at a definite time earlier than the present moment. It suggests motion or progression away from the speaker or observer and toward a destination behind or on the opposite side of a particular location. This usage could indicate movement relating to physical spaces, temporal sequences, or metaphorical dimensions.

    In general, whether as a noun, adjective, or adverb, the term past encapsulates the concept of time that has already elapsed, holding remnants of our history as we move into the future.

  2. • Gone by or beyond; not present nor future; ended; accomplished.
    • Beyond; out of reach of.
    • By, as the wind swept past; the past, time gone by.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for PAST *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for PAST

Etymology of PAST

The word "past" originated from the Middle English word "past", which first appeared in the late 14th century. It was derived from the Old English word "pæst", which means "the act of feeding or grazing" or "pasture". This Old English term further evolved from the Proto-Germanic word "*pastuz", which also referred to "grazing" or "feeding". Its origin can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root "*pes-", meaning "to feed". The word "past" gained its modern meaning of "gone by in time" or "no longer present" in the late 14th century, likely due to the concept of time as something that is "grazed" or moved beyond.

Idioms with the word PAST

  • slip past The idiom "slip past" means to go by or pass without being noticed or detected, often referring to a hidden action, unnoticed movement, or failure to fulfill a responsibility. It implies avoiding attention, observation, or acknowledgment.
  • push past The idiom "push past" means to overcome or disregard obstacles, limitations, or resistance in order to achieve a goal or make progress. It involves showing determination and perseverance to move forward despite challenges.
  • zoom past The definition of the idiom "zoom past" is: to move quickly and swiftly past someone or something.
  • zip past The idiom "zip past" refers to moving quickly and swiftly past someone or something, typically with great speed or efficiency.
  • whiz past The idiom "whiz past" means to move rapidly or swiftly past something or someone. It implies a quick and speedy movement, generally indicating that something or someone is moving too fast to be fully observed or appreciated.
  • thunder past The idiom "thunder past" means to move or drive swiftly and forcefully, creating a loud noise or commotion, similar to the sound of thunder. It implies moving with great speed and energy.
  • past prime The idiom "past prime" refers to something or someone that was once in their best or most successful condition, but has since declined or deteriorated. It implies that the situation or person is no longer as effective, productive, or influential as they used to be.
  • be/look past it The idiom "be/look past it" refers to disregarding or overlooking something, usually an obstacle, inconvenience, or flaw, in order to focus on a more significant goal or aspect. It implies not allowing minor issues to hinder your progress or judgment.
  • blast from the past The idiom "blast from the past" refers to someone or something that is encountered or remembered after a long period of time, typically bringing back memories, emotions, or nostalgia related to earlier times. It is often used to describe a person, event, or element from the past that unexpectedly resurfaces.
  • past your/its prime The idiom "past your/its prime" refers to something or someone that has surpassed their most successful or productive period. It indicates a decline or deterioration from a peak state or condition. It is often used to describe individuals, objects, or ideas that were once considered highly effective, influential, or significant but have now lost their former glory or relevance.
  • be first past the post The idiom "be first past the post" refers to the concept of winning or being declared victorious in a competition or election by having the highest number of votes or reaching the finish line before any other competitors. It originates from the practice in certain forms of elections where the candidate who receives the most votes, regardless of the margin, is declared the winner. In a literal sense, it can also refer to achieving something ahead of others or being the first to complete a task or reach a target.
  • whiz past sm or sth The idiom "whiz past someone or something" means to move swiftly or quickly past someone or something. It implies a rapid movement or passing by with great speed.
  • be past its sell-by date The idiom "be past its sell-by date" refers to something that is no longer useful, effective, valuable, or important due to its age or outdated nature. It indicates that the item or concept has exceeded its most advantageous and relevant period for use or consumption.
  • get past The idiom "get past" means to overcome or move beyond a challenge, obstacle, or difficult situation. It implies successfully dealing with something that was impeding progress or causing difficulty, and continuing forward.
  • a blast from the past The idiom "a blast from the past" refers to something or someone from the past that is unexpectedly encountered or remembered after a significant amount of time has passed. It often evokes a sense of nostalgia or surprise.
  • past cure The idiom "past cure" refers to a situation or condition that is beyond any hope or possibility of improvement or remedy. It implies that there is no solution or treatment that can help anymore.
  • past master The idiom "past master" refers to someone who is highly skilled or experienced in a particular field or activity. It typically denotes a person who has thoroughly mastered and excelled in a particular craft, skill, or art to the point of being considered an expert or a master.
  • be a thing of the past The idiom "be a thing of the past" means that something is no longer relevant, popular, or in use. It implies that whatever is being referred to is outdated and has been replaced by newer or more advanced alternatives.
  • not put it past someone The idiom "not put it past someone" means to believe that someone is capable of doing something, especially when it is dishonest or unexpected.
  • smuggle past The idiom "smuggle past" means to secretly or clandestinely transport or move something or someone past a particular point or through a specific place, often to avoid detection, inspection, or security measures.
  • get sth past The idiom "get something past" means to successfully trick or deceive someone by convincing them of something that is not true. It implies that the person being deceived did not notice or realize the trick being played.
  • fly past The idiom "fly past" refers to a swift and fleeting movement, often referring to an object or event passing by quickly, without making a significant impact or leaving a lasting impression. It can also describe the act of flying over or past someone or something.
  • file past (sm or sth) The idiom "file past (someone or something)" means to walk or move in a line or row, passing by someone or something one after another. It often refers to a formal procession or march where individuals move in an orderly manner, typically in a single file, while being observed or acknowledged by the person or object they are passing by.
  • go past sm or sth The idiom "go past someone or something" means to surpass or exceed someone or something in terms of performance, quality, or achievement. It can also refer to the act of physically passing by or moving beyond someone or something.
  • go past The idiom "go past" means to exceed a certain point or boundary, to surpass or outdo something, or to move beyond a past experience or circumstance.
  • smuggle sm or sth past The idiom "smuggle something past" means to secretly and illicitly transport or bring something, often prohibited or illegal, through a guarded or restricted area without being detected or discovered. It refers to engaging in sneaky actions to successfully get something past security, customs, or authorities.
  • first past the post The idiom "first past the post" refers to a voting system where the candidate or party that receives the highest number of votes, regardless of the percentage of total votes, wins the election.
  • mill cannot grind with water that is past The idiom "mill cannot grind with water that is past" means that it is not possible to change or undo something that has already happened. It implies that dwelling on past mistakes or regrets is futile since they cannot be altered or undone. Just like a mill cannot grind with water that has already passed, one cannot change the past and should instead focus on the present and future.
  • be past sellby date The idiom "be past sell-by date" refers to something or someone being no longer useful, relevant, or effective due to aging or expiration. It typically implies that the person or thing has outlived its usefulness or is outdated, similar to products that are past their expiration date and no longer suitable for consumption or sale.
  • not put it past The idiom "not put it past" means to believe that someone is capable of doing something, often implying that it may be something sneaky, dishonest, or surprising. It suggests that one should not underestimate someone's tendencies or actions.
  • word (once) spoken is past recalling The idiom "word (once) spoken is past recalling" means that once something is said, it cannot be unsaid or taken back. It highlights the idea that words have permanent consequences, and there is no way to undo their impact once they are spoken.
  • word spoken is past recalling The idiom "word spoken is past recalling" means that once something is said, it cannot be undone or taken back. It suggests that the consequences or impact of words cannot be reversed, as they have already been heard or understood by others. Therefore, one should be cautious in choosing their words before speaking, as they hold the power to both create and damage relationships or situations.
  • march past sm or sth The idiom "march past someone or something" refers to a military or ceremonial procession where a group of individuals move in an organized manner, usually in a straight line, while passing by a specified person or object. It can also be used figuratively to describe how something or someone is presented or displayed in a deliberate and orderly manner.
  • be past your/its best The idiom "be past your/its best" refers to the state of someone or something no longer being at their peak or in their prime. It signifies that they have declined or deteriorated from their earlier, more successful or productive state.
  • The age of miracles is past. The idiom "The age of miracles is past" means that exceptional or extraordinary things often seen in the past are no longer likely or possible. It suggests a belief that past wonders or remarkable occurrences cannot be replicated in the present.
  • file past The idiom "file past" refers to the act of moving in a single file line, typically in a formal or solemn manner. It is often used to describe a procession or march, where people walk past a specific point or person in an orderly fashion.
  • can't see past the end of (one's) nose The idiom "can't see past the end of (one's) nose" means that someone is unable or unwilling to consider or understand things beyond their immediate situation or perspective. It signifies a lack of foresight, narrow-mindedness, or an inability to see the bigger picture.
  • past sm's (or sth's) prime The idiom "past someone's (or something's) prime" refers to when someone or something is no longer in their best or peak condition, performance, or usefulness. It signifies that they have already reached their peak and are now in a state of decline or are no longer as effective or valuable as they once were.
  • be past (someone's or something's) best The idiom "be past (someone's or something's) best" refers to the state where someone or something is no longer performing or functioning at its highest or most successful level. It suggests that their prime or peak has already passed, and they are now in a decline or deteriorating phase.
  • march past The idiom "march past" refers to the act of marching in a formal procession or parade, usually in a military or ceremonial context, where a formation of individuals moves in an organized manner in front of spectators or a reviewing stand. It often implies discipline, precision, and the display of respect or honor.
  • past caring The idiom "past caring" is used to describe a state of complete indifference or lack of concern about a situation, typically because one has reached a point where they no longer have the energy, interest, or ability to care about it.
  • get something past The idiom "get something past" means to successfully deceive or trick someone by concealing or misrepresenting information. It implies that someone managed to achieve something without the awareness, knowledge, or approval of others.
  • be past it The idiom "be past it" refers to being too old or no longer capable of doing something due to old age or physical decline. It implies that the person or thing in question is no longer in their prime or cannot perform tasks as effectively as they once could.
  • thunder past sm or sth The idiom "thunder past someone or something" means to move quickly and loudly past a person or object. It implies that the movement is forceful, rapid, and possibly disruptive or attention-grabbing, like the sound of thunder.
  • zoom past sm or sth The idiom "zoom past someone or something" means to pass by someone or something quickly and swiftly, usually with great speed or without much attention. It implies that the person or thing being zoomed past is relatively stationary or slower in comparison.
  • go past someone or something The idiom "go past someone or something" means to move beyond or surpass an individual or object in terms of progress, success, or achievement. It can also refer to physically passing someone or something as you move forward.
  • be past your sellby date The idiom "be past your sell-by date" refers to a person or thing that is considered outdated, no longer useful, or no longer effective. It implies that the person or thing has passed their prime or expiration date, and is no longer desirable or relevant.
  • I wouldn't put it past The idiom "I wouldn't put it past" is used to express disbelief or skepticism about someone's actions or behavior. It implies that while something may seem unlikely or outrageous, it is still within the realm of possibility.
  • a thing of the past The idiom "a thing of the past" refers to something that no longer exists or is no longer relevant or popular in the present time. It implies that the mentioned thing has become outdated, obsolete, or has been replaced by something more advanced or modern.
  • be past the/(one's) sell-by date The idiom "be past the/(one's) sell-by date" means that something or someone is considered to be no longer useful, relevant, or effective due to being outdated, out of touch, or past their prime. It is often used to describe people who are perceived as being too old to continue in their profession or individuals whose ideas or skills are no longer valued or needed.
  • not put it past sb (to do sth) The phrase "not put it past someone (to do something)" means that you believe someone is very likely capable of doing something, even if it seems surprising or unexpected. It suggests that the person in question has a history or tendency to engage in such behavior.
  • the dim and distant past The idiom "the dim and distant past" refers to a time or period that was long ago, often so far back in time that it is difficult to recall or remember specific details. It suggests that the events or experiences being referred to have become hazy or obscured by the passage of time.
  • in times past The idiom "in times past" refers to a period or era that occurred before the present time, typically referring to events or circumstances that happened long ago. It represents a contrast between the present and a historical period in the past.
  • quarter past (a given hour in time) The idiom "quarter past (a given hour in time)" means that it is 15 minutes past the hour specified. For example, "quarter past two" means it is 2:15.
  • be past caring The idiom "be past caring" means to reach a point where one no longer feels any concern, interest, or emotion about a specific situation or outcome. It suggests that someone has become indifferent or apathetic towards that particular issue.
  • zip past sm or sth The idiom "zip past someone or something" refers to moving quickly by or going past someone or something swiftly. It implies a notion of speed, as if the person or object is moving rapidly and almost effortlessly.
  • live in the past The idiom "live in the past" means to consistently dwell on or cling to past experiences or events, often to the point of hindering personal growth or progress. It refers to someone who is reluctant to move forward and adjust to new circumstances, instead remaining fixated on the past.
  • let past
  • not see beyond/past the end of your nose This idiom refers to someone who is unable to perceive or consider anything beyond their own immediate circumstances or needs. They lack foresight or the ability to see the bigger picture.
  • be beyond/past caring To be indifferent or unbothered about a situation or issue; to no longer have any interest or concern in something.

Similar spelling words for PAST

Plural form of PAST is PASTS

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