What is before? What is before? Earlier in time: They called me the day before. In front; ahead.Previous to in time; earlier than. In front of.In store for; awaiting: The young man's whole life lies before him. Into or in the presence of: She asked that the visitor be brought before her. Under the consideration or jurisdiction of: The case is now before the court. In a position superior to: The prince is before his brother in the line of succession. In advance of the time when: See me before you leave. Rather than; sooner than: I will die before I will betray my country.