I. ˈnän(t)s, sometimes ˈnən- noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English nones, from nanes, alteration (resulting from incorrect division of then anes in such phrases as to then anes for the one purpose, from to + then — dative singular neuter of the, definite article — + anes one purpose) of anes one purpose, alteration (probably influenced by anes once) of ane, dative singular neuter of an one, from Old English ān — more at one , once
: the one, particular, or present occasion, purpose, or use
•
- for the nonce
II. adjective
: occurring, used, or made only once or for a special occasion
the words which he cites … represent mainly nonce loans — C.E.Reed
even factitious and nonce names have been listed — F.G.Cassidy
chose one of four societies as a nonce police — Journal of the Royal Anthrop. Institute of G. British & Ire.
nonce uses