Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Only
1.
One alone; single;
as, the
only
man present; his only
occupation.2.
Alone in its class; by itself; not associated with others of the same class or kind;
as, an
. only
child3.
Hence,
(figuratively)
: Alone, by reason of superiority; preeminent; chief.
“Motley’s the only wear.” Shak.
1.
In one manner or degree; for one purpose alone; simply; merely; barely.
And to be loved himself, needs
only
to be known. Dryden.
2.
So and no otherwise; no other than; exclusively; solely; wholly.
“She being only wicked.” Beau. & Fl.
Every imagination . . . of his heart was
only
evil. Gen. vi. 5.
3.
Singly; without more;
as,
. only
-begotten4.
Above all others; particularly.
[Obs.]
His most
only
elected mistress. Marston.
On′ly
,c
onj.
Save or except (that); – an adversative used elliptically with or without that, and properly introducing a single fact or consideration.
He might have seemed some secretary or clerk . . .
only
that his low, flat, unadorned cap . . . indicated that he belonged to the city. Sir W. Scott.
Webster 1828 Edition
Only
ONLY
,Adj.
1.
Single; one along; as, John was the only man present.2.
This and no other. This is an only child.3.
This above all others. He is the only man for music.