Correct spelling for the English word "oncer" is [wˈɒnsə], [wˈɒnsə], [w_ˈɒ_n_s_ə] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
The term "oncer" refers to a person who accomplishes a particular feat or experiences something significant only once. It is commonly used to describe someone who achieved or undertook something notable but failed to replicate it or sustain the success or experience in subsequent attempts. The term often implies that the person's performance or impact was brief or fleeting, defining them as a one-time achiever or participant in a specific event or occasion.
The concept of being an "oncer" can be applied to various domains, such as sports, arts, or academia. For example, in sports, it can be used to describe an athlete who had a moment of exceptional performance during a particular game or tournament but was unable to reclaim that level of success in subsequent matches or seasons. Similarly, in the field of arts, it can refer to an artist who created a masterpiece or achieved notable recognition with a single work but struggled to replicate that level of acclaim in subsequent artistic endeavours.
The term "oncer" can also be used metaphorically or figuratively to describe experiences or events that are unique or occur only once in a lifetime. It can signify a singular occurrence that has a profound or significant impact on an individual's life or memory. In this context, being an "oncer" implies having a distinct and unrepeatable experience that becomes a defining moment or memory in one's personal history.
The word "oncer" does not have a well-established etymology. It is considered to be a slang term primarily used in British English, particularly in the East End of London.
While there are different theories about its origins, it is believed to have emerged in the early 20th century and is thought to be derived from various sources. Some suggest that it might be a shortened version of "once over", meaning a quick examination or assessment. Others propose that it could be related to the verb "to once" used in the sense of doing something for a short duration or just once.
However, due to the informal nature of the word and its localized usage, its exact etymology remains unclear.