Crossword Dictionary

What's The Definition Of Any?

\A"ny\, a. & pron. [OE. [ae]ni[yogh], [ae]ni, eni, ani, oni, AS. [=ae]nig, fr. [=a]n one. It is akin to OS. [=e]nig, OHG. einic, G. einig, D. eenig. See {One}.] 1. One indifferently, out of an indefinite number; one indefinitely, whosoever or whatsoever it may be. Note: Any is often used in denying or asserting without limitation; as, this thing ought not be done at any time; I ask any one to answer my question. No man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son. --Matt. xi. 27. 2. Some, of whatever kind, quantity, or number; as, are there any witnesses present? are there any other houses like it? ``Who will show us any good?'' --Ps. iv. 6. Note: It is often used, either in the singular or the plural, as a pronoun, the person or thing being understood; anybody; anyone; (pl.) any persons. If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, . . . and it shall be given him. --Jas. i. 5. That if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem. --Acts ix. 2. {At any rate}, {In any case}, whatever may be the state of affairs; anyhow.
\A"ny\, adv. To any extent; in any degree; at all. You are not to go loose any longer. --Shak. Before you go any farther. --Steele.