Except

/ɪkˈsɛpt/

Meaning & Definition

verb
To take or leave out; exclude.
They will except certain individuals from the new rules.
preposition
Used to exclude someone or something.
Everyone was invited to the party except John.
Other than; but.
I have no choice except to agree with you.
conjunction
Used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or contradicts the preceding statement.
I would go, except that I have a prior commitment.

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin 'exceptus', meaning 'to take out'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

except for
used to indicate that something is not included.
except that
used to introduce a clause that specifies something not included.
everyone except
referring to all members of a group except one or more.

Related Words

exclude
To deliberately leave out or not include.
exception
A person or instance that does not conform to a general rule.

Slang Meanings

None; often used in a context to emphasize exclusivity.
Everyone's welcome, except.