1. (prep.) In front of; preceding in space; ahead of; as, to stand before the fire; before the house.

2. (prep.) Preceding in time; earlier than; previously to; anterior to the time when; -- sometimes with the additional idea of purpose; in order that.

3. (prep.) An advance of; farther onward, in place or time.

4. (prep.) Prior or preceding in dignity, order, rank, right, or worth; rather than.

5. (prep.) In presence or sight of; face to face with; facing.

6. (prep.) Under the cognizance or jurisdiction of.

7. (prep.) Open for; free of access to; in the power of.

8. (adv.) On the fore part; in front, or in the direction of the front; -- opposed to in the rear.

9. (adv.) In advance.

10. (adv.) In time past; previously; already.

11. (adv.) Earlier; sooner than; until then.