once

adv

Etymology: From Middle English ones, from Old English ānes, a remodelling (after ān (“one”)) of ǣnes, itself an extension of ǣne (“once”) with the genitive suffix -es. Equivalent to one + -s. Cognate with Saterland Frisian enst, insen (“once”), West Frisian iens (“once”), Dutch eens (“once”), German Low German eens, ins (“once”), German einst (“once”). More at one (including regarding the development of the pronunciation) and -s.

1. One and only one time.

   “I have only once eaten pizza.”

2. Formerly; during some period in the past.

   “He was once the most handsome man around.”

   “I once had a motorbicycle.”

3. At any time; ever.

   “If the facts once became known, we'd be in trouble.”

   “Once bring in the police and what is inevitably bound to follow? There will be calls and interrogations and cross-questionings […]”

4. One day, someday.

   “The wisdom of God thought fit to acquaint David with that court which we shall once govern.”

5. Multiplied by one: indicating that a number is multiplied by one.

   “Once three is three.”

conj

Etymology: From Middle English ones, from Old English ānes, a remodelling (after ān (“one”)) of ǣnes, itself an extension of ǣne (“once”) with the genitive suffix -es. Equivalent to one + -s. Cognate with Saterland Frisian enst, insen (“once”), West Frisian iens (“once”), Dutch eens (“once”), German Low German eens, ins (“once”), German einst (“once”). More at one (including regarding the development of the pronunciation) and -s.

1. As soon as; when; after.

   “Near-synonym: immediately”

   “We'll get a move on once we find the damn car keys!”

noun

1. Obsolete form of ounce.