but1
¦ conjunction
1. used to introduce a phrase or clause contrasting with what has come before or with what is expected.
2. [with negative or in questions] other than; otherwise than.
3. [with negative] archaic without it being the case that.
¦ preposition except; apart from.
¦ adverb
1. only.
2. Austral./NZ & Scottish informal though; however: he was a nice bloke but.
¦ noun an objection: no ifs and buts.
Phrases
but for except for.
?if it were not for.
Origin
OE
be-u?tan,
bu?tan,
bu?ta 'outside, without, except' (see
by,
out).
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but2
¦ noun Scottish an outer room, especially in a two-roomed cottage.
Phrases
Origin
C18: from
but1 in the early sense 'outside'.