/ ˈevə(r); NAmE / adverb
1.
used in negative sentences and questions, or sentences with if to mean 'at any time' :
Nothing ever happens here.
Don't you ever get tired?
If you're ever in Miami, come and see us.
'Have you ever thought of changing your job?' 'No, never / No I haven't.'
'Have you ever been to Rome?' 'Yes, I have, actually. Not long ago.'
She hardly ever (= almost never) goes out.
We see them very seldom, if ever .
( informal )
I'll never ever do that again!
2.
used for emphasis when you are comparing things :
It was raining harder than ever.
It's my best ever score.
3.
(rather formal ) all the time or every time; always :
Paul, ever the optimist, agreed to try again.
She married the prince and they lived happily ever after .
He said he would love her for ever (and ever) .
Their debts grew ever larger (= kept increasing) .
the ever-growing problem
an ever-present danger
4.
used after when , why , etc. to show that you are surprised or shocked :
Why ever did you agree?
•
IDIOMS
- all sb ever does is ...
- did you ever ( ... )!
- ever since ( ... )
- ever so / ever such a
- if ever there was (one)
- was / is / does, etc. sb ever!
- yours ever / ever yours
••
WORD ORIGIN
Old English ǣfre , of unknown origin.