whi·lom I. \ˈhwīləm also ˈwī-\adverb Etymology: Middle English, formerly, at times, from Old English hwīlum at times, dative plural of hwīl time, while — more at while archaic: at a time in the past : formerly, once II. adjective Etymology: Middle English, from whilom, adverb : having been at an earlier time : former < the poor gentleman had grievous treatment at the hands of whilom friends — Agnes Repplier >