adv. 1 at all times; always (ever hopeful; ever after). 2 at any time (have you ever smoked?, nothing ever happens). 3 (used for emphasis) in any way; at all (how ever did you do it?). 4 (in comb.) constantly (everpresent). 5 (foil. by so, such) colloq. very; very much (ever so easy; thanks ever so). o did you ever? colloq. did you ever hear or see the like? ever since throughout the period since. [Old English]
