Websters Dictionary 1828
This online edition has been carefully prepared in a special format. All words, definitions, and examples have been preserved, but the explanations of word origins have been left out to make the data easier to use in a digital format. We have also removed Webster's long technical introduction for the same reason.
Scripture references have been converted to a modern format, and many abbreviations have been expanded to make them easier to understand.
Afore
AFO'RE, adverb or preposition [a and fore.]
1. In front.
2. Between one object and another, so as to intercept a direct view or intercourse; as, to stand between a person and the light of a candle - a popular use of the word.
3. Prior in time; before; anterior; prior time being considered as in front of subsequent time.
The grass which withereth afore it groweth up. Psalms 129:6.
In all these senses it is now inelegant, and superseded by before.
4. In seaman's language, toward the head of the ship; further forward, or nearer the stem; as, afore the windlas. afore the mast, is a phrase which is applied to a common sailor, one who does duty on the main deck, or has no office on board the ship.