Early

(ēr'l'y, 14), a. [O. Eng. arliche, erliche, ercliche, eerly, erely, A-S. ārlice, from ār, before. See ERE.] In advance of the usual or appointed time; in good season; prior in time; as, an early spring; early fruit; early hours, and the like. Syn.—Forward; timely; not late.