Dictionary entry overview: What does past mean? • PAST (noun) The noun PAST has 3 senses: 1. the time that has elapsed 2. a earlier period in someone's life (especially one that they have reason to keep secret) 3. a verb tense that expresses actions or states in the past Familiarity information: PAST used as a noun is uncommon. • PAST (adjective) The adjective PAST has 3 senses: 1. earlier than the present time; no longer current. 2. of a person who has held and relinquished a position or office. 3. a verb tense or other construction referring to events or states that existed at some previous time. Familiarity information: PAST used as an adjective is uncommon.