noun

nonce

nons

Nonce (noun) means a single, specific occasion, used mainly in the phrase "for the nonce.". Example: “We'll use this room for the nonce, until a better office is available.”

noun

A single, specific occasion, used mainly in the phrase "for the nonce."

"We'll use this room for the nonce, until a better office is available."

A random or unique value used once in cryptography to prevent replay attacks.

"The server generates a new nonce for every login attempt to stop hackers from reusing old requests."

(British slang, offensive) A derogatory term for a sex offender, particularly one who targets children.

"The tabloid used the slang term to describe the convicted offender."

How to use nonce

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishDepending on context: a one-off occasion, a unique security code, or (British slang) an offensive term for a sex offender.

When to use it

The sex-offender sense is coarse slang, mainly heard in British English, and should be used with care.

Common pairings

for the nonce a nonce word cryptographic nonce

Word forms

nonces plural, nonces plural

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.

Test yourself on “nonce” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Etymology

From a Middle English rebracketing of "for then anes" ("for the one occasion"). The cryptography sense is often explained as short for "number used once," though that may be a later reinterpretation.

Origin: Middle English

Synonyms

View more →

time being

Rhymes for nonce

once ponce

See all rhymes for nonce →

Frequently asked questions

What does “nonce” mean?

The word “nonce” means a single, specific occasion, used mainly in the phrase "for the nonce.". In plain terms, depending on context: a one-off occasion, a unique security code, or (British slang) an offensive term for a sex offender.

How do you pronounce “nonce”?

“Nonce” is pronounced nons (/nɑns/ in IPA).

How do you use “nonce” in a sentence?

Here is “nonce” used in a sentence: “We'll use this room for the nonce, until a better office is available.”

What part of speech is “nonce”?

“Nonce” is a noun.

Where does the word “nonce” come from?

The word “nonce” comes from Middle English. From a Middle English rebracketing of "for then anes" ("for the one occasion"). The cryptography sense is often explained as short for "number used once," though that may be a later reinterpretation.

How many meanings does “nonce” have?

“Nonce” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a single, specific occasion, used mainly in the phrase "for the nonce.".