but

adverb

1. and nothing more

- hopes that last but a moment

Similar word(s): just, merely, only, simply

conjunction

1. Except (for), excluding. Preceded by a negation.

- I have no choice but to leave.

2. On the contrary, but rather (introducing a word or clause that contrasts with or contradicts the preceding clause or sentence without the not).

- I am not rich but (I am) poor;

3. However, although, nevertheless (implies that the following clause is contrary to prior belief or contrasts with or contradicts the preceding clause or sentence).

- She is very old but still attractive.

- You told me I could do that, but she said that I could not.

4. Except that (introducing a subordinate clause which qualifies a negative statement); also, with omission of the subject of the subordinate clause, acting as a negative relative, "except one that", "except such that".

- I cannot but feel offended.

5. Without it also being the case that; unless that (introducing a necessary concomitant).

- It never rains but it pours.

6. (obsolete) Except with; unless with; without.

7. (obsolete) Only; solely; merely.

noun

1. An instance or example of using the word "but".

- It has to be done – no ifs or buts.

2. (Scotland) The outer room of a small two-room cottage.

3. A limit; a boundary.

4. The end; especially the larger or thicker end, or the blunt, in distinction from the sharp, end; the butt.

preposition

1. (obsolete outside Scotland) Outside of.

- Away but the hoose and tell me whae's there.

2. Without, apart from, except.

- Everyone but Father left early.

- I like everything but that.