Henceforth

Podcast 1 · Introduction

Henceforth

A documentary-style narration: origin, meaning, and feel.

Part of speech

adverb

Pronunciation

hens-FORTH  /ˌhɛnsˈfɔːθ/

Definition

From this time on; from now on; from this point forward in time or in a document. A formal, typically written adverb marking a transition from the present moment into all future time.

Plain meaning

Henceforth means from now on or from this point forward. It is a formal word used in legal documents, proclamations, and formal writing to mark a permanent change that applies from this moment into the future.

Register

Formal and somewhat archaic. Henceforth is at home in legal documents, formal proclamations, and literary prose. In everyday speech, from now on is the standard equivalent. The word's formality can be used deliberately for ironic or comic effect when applied to trivial matters.