earlier >> /ˈəːli/
Definition: [adverb] Before the usual or expected time.
Definition: [adverb] Near the beginning of a particular time or period.
Definition: [noun] Potatoes which are ready to be harvested before the main crop.
Example: The versatile early potato Solanum tuberosum has many varieties, which have their own distinct season in Britain: earlies, second earlies and main crop.
Definition: [noun] Early shifts.
Definition: [adjective] Happening or done before the usual or expected time.
Example: we ate an early lunch
Definition: [adjective] Belonging or happening near the beginning of a particular period.
Example: an early goal secured victory