ENGLISH
REFERENCE

many moons ago

idiom
Meaning

A (very) long time ago.


Origin

disputed origin

In reference to lunar calendars, which were more commonly used in premodern times.

Examples
SIMPLE

I visited that city many moons ago.

CONTEXTUAL

We were best friends many moons ago, but we lost touch after moving to different countries.

COMPLEX

The old lighthouse, built many moons ago, still stands as a silent witness to the changing tides of the coast.

Anchors to
Related idioms7entries
  1. 01

    four score and seven years ago

    Used (sometimes sarcastically) to indicate that a past event being mentioned is particularly important: a long time ago; many years ago.

  2. 02

    have one's fingers in many pies

    To be involved in many, or too many, different things.

  3. 03

    many a time and oft

    Frequently.

  4. 04

    many happy returns

    A greeting, usually for birthdays, in reference to the passing year; Happy birthday!

  5. 05

    one too many

    One or more servings too many of alcohol, leading to drunkenness.

  6. 06

    too many balls in the air

    Too many tasks, responsibilities, or details to cope with or manage successfully.

  7. 07

    wear too many hats

    To try to fill more roles at once than is realistically possible.

© 2026 English Reference