adjective [onlybeforenoun]
1 that used to exist in earlier times:
in former times * the countries of the former Soviet Union * This beautiful old building has been restored to its former glory.
2 that used to have a particular position or status in the past:
the former world champion * my former boss / colleague / wife
3 (the former...) used to refer to the first of two things or people mentioned:
The former option would be much more sensible.
compareLATTER
4 (the former) pronoun the first of two things or people mentioned:
He had to choose between giving up his job and giving up his principles. He chose the former.
compareLATTER
IDIOMS
be a shadow / ghost of your former self to not have the strength, influence, etc. that you used to have:
When his career ended, he became a shadow of his former self.
