forthwith

Forthwith is an adverb meaning immediately or without delay. In modern usage it is largely confined to formal, ceremonial, or legal language, where it carries a sense of unquestionable promptness.

Originating from the combination of forth and with in Old and Middle English, the term developed the sense of doing something without hesitation. It has remained in formal registers, especially in legal or official texts.

In legal contexts, forthwith often appears in orders or notices requiring prompt compliance, for example, "The respondent shall respond forthwith." Outside such contexts, the word is considered archaic or pompous and is usually replaced by immediately, at once, or promptly. It is more common in British English than in American English.

Most standard dictionaries define forthwith as "immediately; without delay" and note its limited, formal usage.