adj.

1. being the only one; single and isolated from others;
   lone(a), lonesome(a), only(a), sole(a), solitary(a)
   
   • the lone doctor in the entire county
   • a lonesome pine
   • an only child
   • the sole heir
   • the sole example
   • a solitary instance of cowardice
   • a solitary speck in the sky
2. exclusive of anyone or anything else;
   alone(p)
   
   • she alone believed him
   • cannot live by bread alone
   • I'll have this car and this car only

adv.

1. and nothing more;
   merely, simply, just, but
   
   • I was merely asking
   • it is simply a matter of time
   • just a scratch
   • he was only a child
   • hopes that last but a moment
2. without any others being included or involved;
   entirely, exclusively, solely, alone
   
   • was entirely to blame
   • a school devoted entirely to the needs of problem children
   • he works for Mr. Smith exclusively
   • did it solely for money
   • the burden of proof rests on the prosecution alone
   • a privilege granted only to him
3. with nevertheless the final result
   
   • He arrived only to find his wife dead
   • We won only to lose again in the next round
4. in the final outcome
   
   • These news will only make you more upset
5. except that
   
   • It was the same story; only this time she came out better
6. never except when;
   only if, only when
   
   • call me only if your cold gets worse
7. as recently as
   
   • I spoke to him only an hour ago