adv. arch. [f. AFORE prep. + HAND; cf. the much earlier BEFOREHAND. In early times generally written as two (or three) words, and even analytically afore the hand.] = BEFOREHAND, which is now the ordinary form.
1. With previous preparation, in anticipation, in advance. arch. and dial.
1430. Lydg., Chron. Troy, I. v. As we were wonte aforehande for to see.
c. 1430. Syr Generides, 378. He couth by the sterres Tel of peace and of werres. Of that he seid afor the hond My fadre alwey soth fond.
1526. Tindale, Mark xiv. 8. She cam a fore honde to anoynt my boddy to his buryinge warde.
1639. Fuller, Holy War, V. xxii. (1840), 280. In the nature of wages ex pacto contracted for aforehand.
1850. Dickens, Lett. (1880), I. 231. It is not possible for him to say aforehand … what it will cost.
† 2. adjectively. Prepared or provided for the future. Obs.
1626. Bacon, New Atl., Wks. 1860, 275. The Strangers’-House is at this time rich and much aforehand, for it hath laid up revenue.
1741. Richardson, Pamela (1824), I. 216. A couple of guineas will be of use to Mrs. Mumford, who, I doubt, has not much aforehand. Ibid. (1748), Clarissa (1811), III. 201. She lives reputably and is … aforehand in the world.
† To be aforehand with: To anticipate, to forestall, to have the first word, or make the first move. Obs.
1670. G. H., trans. Hist. Cardinals, II. ii. 173. All that are in Rome do strive to be aforehand with the world.
1748. Richardson, Clarissa (1811), II. 323. A sagacity that is aforehand with events. Ibid. (1753), Grandison, viii. (1781), I. 37. Let me for once be aforehand with my uncle.
