2 entries under this word

Only

Ōn'ly, a.

adjective

(Ōl), a. [O. Eng. onely, A-S. ānlic, ænlic, i. e., one-like.]

One alone; single; as, John was the only man present.
Alone in its class; by itself; not associated with others of the same class or kind; as, an only child.
Distinguished above all others; pre-eminent. “The only art taught in the schools for the direction of the mind.” Locke.

Ōn'ly, adv.

adverb

adv. [A-S. ānlīce, ænlīce. See supra.] 1. In one manner, or for one purpose alone; solely; singly; merely; barely. I propose my thoughts only as conjectures. Burnet. And, to be loved himself, needs only to be known. Dryden.

Above all others; particularly. [Obs.] “His most only elected mistress.” Marston.
Utterly; entirely; wholly. “She being only wicked.” Beau. & Fl.