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. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Alone in its class; by itself; not associated with others of the same class or kind; as, an only child. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. Hence, (figuratively): Alone, by reason of superiority; preeminent; chief. “Motley's the only wear.” Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]

adv. [ See Only, a. ] 1. In one manner or degree; for one purpose alone; simply; merely; barely. [ 1913 Webster ]

And to be loved himself, needs only to be known. Dryden. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. So and no otherwise; no other than; exclusively; solely; wholly. “She being only wicked.” Beau. & Fl. [ 1913 Webster ]

Every imagination . . . of his heart was only evil. Gen. vi. 5. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. Singly; without more; as, only-begotten. [ 1913 Webster ]

4. Above all others; particularly. [ Obs. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

His most only elected mistress. Marston. [ 1913 Webster ]