Happening or done before the usual or expected time. adjective
She arrived early for the meeting.
The early bird catches the worm.
Relating to the beginning part of a period of time, event, or process. adjective
In the early stages of the project, we faced many challenges.
The early years of the 20th century saw significant technological advancements.
Before the usual or expected time. adverb
He woke up early to go for a run.
The store opens early on weekends.
Belonging to or characteristic of a past period or time. adjective
The early works of the artist were less known.
Early humans used simple tools.