nonce1
/
nɒns/
adj.
denoting a word or expression coined for one occasion.
Phrase
- for the nonce
for the present; temporarily.
Etymology
ME: from then anes ‘the one (purpose)’ (from then, obs. oblique form of the + ane ‘one’ + -s3), alt. by wrong division; cf. newt and nickname.
nonce2
/
nɒns/
n.
Brit. informal a sexual deviant, especially a child molester.
Etymology
1970s (orig. prison sl.): of unknown origin.