often

adverb

: many times : frequently
are often puzzled and sometimes annoyed by the ways of other peoplesW. A. Parker

Examples of often in a Sentence

They go out to dinner fairly often. How often do you call your mother? The condition often returns even after treatment with antibiotics. I often take a walk during my lunch break. He travels more often than I do. The disease is diagnosed most often in children. They seem to be getting into arguments more and more often. It's not often that I get to enjoy a day off. Water the plants often enough to keep the soil moist.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Airlines often make a bet that not everyone who confirmed their itinerary will show up for their flight — and when the airlines lose that bet, customers pay the price. Melvin Backman, Quartz, 14 Nov. 2024 Preemies are often at higher risk for physical or intellectual disabilities. Erika Edwards, NBC News, 14 Nov. 2024 Brush piles with enough cover can hold a couple deer, and breeding pairs often shack up in such spots. Josh Honeycutt, Outdoor Life, 14 Nov. 2024 Some professors hesitate to grade accurately because of student evaluations, which are often more negative for tough graders. Karin Klein, The Mercury News, 13 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for often 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, alteration of oft

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of often was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near often

Cite this Entry

“Often.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/often. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

often

adverb
: many times : frequently

More from Merriam-Webster on often

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