Only (?), a. [OE. only, anly, onlich, AS. ānlic, i.e., onelike. See One, and Like, a.] 1. One alone; single; as, the only man present; his only occupation.
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2. Alone in its class; by itself; not associated with others of the same class or kind; as, an only child.
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3. Hence, (figuratively): Alone, by reason of superiority; preëminent; chief. “Motley's the only wear.” Shak.
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Only, conj. Save or except (that); -- an adversative used elliptically with or without that, and properly introducing a single fact or consideration.
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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.
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