now and then

adverb

: from time to time : occasionally
now and then we go off to the country

Examples of now and then in a Sentence

we do go to the library now and then, but not as often as we should
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.
The difference between now and then was the expectation of that old team, led by Knicks icon Patrick Ewing and legendary coach Pat Riley. Mark Morales, CNN Money, 29 May 2025 Guess a good host returns the favor every now and then. Jeff Sanders, The Orlando Sentinel, 29 May 2025 The United States will host the 2031 and ’33 World Cup rugby competitions, and anything that would enhance the sport’s profile in this country between now and then will make a difference. Jim Alexander, Oc Register, 23 May 2025 Which doesn’t mean that a little bit of recognition, if not notoriety, isn’t appreciated every now and then. Davey Winder, Forbes.com, 19 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for now and then

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of now and then was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Now and then.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/now%20and%20then. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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