When adv.
1. At what time; -- used interrogatively.
When shall these things be? --Matt. xxiv. 3.
Note: ☞ See the Note under What, pron., 1.
2. At what time; at, during, or after the time that; at or just after, the moment that; -- used relatively.
Kings may
Take their advantage when and how they list. --Daniel.
Book lore ne'er served, when trial came,
Nor gifts, when faith was dead. --J. H. Newman.
3. While; whereas; although; -- used in the manner of a conjunction to introduce a dependent adverbial sentence or clause, having a causal, conditional, or adversative relation to the principal proposition; as, he chose to turn highwayman when he might have continued an honest man; he removed the tree when it was the best in the grounds.
4. Which time; then; -- used elliptically as a noun.
I was adopted heir by his consent;
Since when, his oath is broke. --Shak.
Note: ☞ When was formerly used as an exclamation of surprise or impatience, like what!
Come hither; mend my ruff:
Here, when! thou art such a tedious lady! --J. Webster.
When as, When that, at the time that; when. [Obs.]
When as sacred light began to dawn. --Milton.
When that mine eye is famished for a look. --Shak.
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