Erstwhile - Meaning , Definition & English Examples Erstwhile means former or previous, referring to something that was true in the past but is no longer the case. It is often used to describe past roles, states, or relationships. The meaning of ERSTWHILE is in the past : formerly. How to use erstwhile in a sentence. Did you know? If your dad used to play in a punk band, but is now a computer programmer, you could call him an erstwhile punk rocker. Erstwhile means "former." ERSTWHILE meaning : 1. previous 2. previous. Learn more.