suffix forming nouns denoting esp. An agent (actor; escalator) or condition (error; horror). [latin]

- conj. - introducing an alternative (white or black; take it or leave it; whether or not).

- introducing an alternative name (the lapwing or peewit).

- introducing an afterthought (came in laughing – or was it crying?).

- = or else 1 (run or you'll be late). or else 1 otherwise (run, or else you will be late).

- colloq. Expressing a warning or threat (be good or else). [old english]

- n. Heraldry gold. [latin aurum gold]