■ verb
1》 move forwards.
↘cause to occur at an earlier date than planned.
2》 make or cause to make progress.
3》 put forward (a theory or suggestion).
4》 hand over (payment) to (someone) as a loan or before it is due.
■ noun
1》 a forward movement.
2》 a development or improvement.
3》 an amount of money ~d.
4》 an approach made with the aim of initiating a sexual or amorous relationship.
■ adjective done, sent, or supplied beforehand: ~ payment.
Phrases
in ~ ahead in time.
Derivatives
~r noun
Origin
ME: from OFr. avance (n.), avancer (v.), from late L. abante 'in front', from ab 'from' + ante 'before'.