noun, adverb
former years; a few years ago; formerly
Refers to years past, often used in formal or written contexts. Can function as a noun or adverb.
先年の台風で大きな被害が出た。
The typhoon a few years ago caused great damage.
先年、この地を訪れたことがある。
I visited this place some years ago.
Compound of 先 (previous) and 年 (year). The reading せんねん is the on'yomi of both characters.