only adjective [OE. only, anly, onlich, AS. ānlic, i.e., onelike. See One, and Like, adjective]

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 child.

3. Hence, (figuratively): Alone, by reason of superiority; preeminent; chief.

“Motley’s the only wear.” Shak.

On′ly adverb [See Only, adjective]

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-begotten.

4. Above all others; particularly. [Obs.]

His most only elected mistress. Marston.

On′ly conjunction 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.