onliest

[ ohn-lee-ist ]

adjective

, Nonstandard.

1. only: used as an intensive.

Word History and Origins

Origin of onliest¹

First recorded in 1575–85; only + -est ¹

Example Sentences

I hear talk dat de Moon'll bite at a hook ef you take fools fer baits, en I lay dat 's de onliest way fer ter ketch 'er,' sezee.

From Project Gutenberg

Why, Ellen girl, don't you know that ever since the first day I saw you you've been the onliest girl for me!

From Project Gutenberg

He de onliest one what's got er patch o' whiskers so she gwine to put a little white cat on he' grabe.

From Project Gutenberg

"'Pears like it's de onliest way I kin save my pigs," said Uncle Ned, with a sigh.

From Project Gutenberg

Imogene, my onliest, sweet bird of paradise, it is your mate who calls.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• completely
• entirely
• exclusively
• individually
• merely
• purely
• simply
• single-handedly
• totally
• wholly