Hereafter Meaning and Definition
Hereafter
Pronunciation
/ˈhɪrɪftər/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A place, state, or period of existence that begins after death, a future time or era; a future life or lives.
Examples
- The concept of the hereafter is a central theme in many religions.
- The person believed they would enter a peaceful hereafter after their passing.
Synonyms
- Afterlife
- Next life
Antonyms
- Present life
- Current existence
Etymology
The word “hereafter” has its roots in Old English and Germanic languages, evolving from the phrase “heorae afer” meaning “after this life”.
Usage Notes
The word “hereafter” is often used in a spiritual or religious context to describe a future existence beyond this life. It can also be used more broadly to refer to any future time or era.
Cultural References
The word “hereafter” has been featured in various works of literature and art, including Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” and the film “The Sixth Sense”.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Idiomatic expressions that include the word “hereafter” may be used to convey a sense of finality or certainty, such as “may you be at peace in the hereafter”.
Related Words or Phrases
- Afterlife
- Next world
- Eternal life
Collocations
The word “hereafter” often appears in combination with words such as “life”, “time”, “era”, and “existence”.
Frequency of Use
The word “hereafter” is relatively infrequent in modern language, but it can be used effectively to convey a sense of depth or spirituality in writing or conversation.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings of the word “hereafter” may include “herefter”, “hearafter”, or “herafter”.