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
1
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."
2
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."
3
(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 notesIn 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
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Word forms
- Plural
- nonces
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.
Synonyms
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time being
Rhymes for nonce
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.".
