Dictionary
would–be
adjective \ˈwu̇d-ˈbē\
—used to describe someone who hopes to be a particular person or type of person
Full Definition of WOULD-BE
: desiring, intending, professing, or having the potential to be <a would–be actor>
See would–be defined for English-language learners
See would-be defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
First Known Use of WOULD-BE
1647
Learn More About WOULD-BE
Browse
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up would-be? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).