Dictionary saveException

preposition

save

Except for.

The room is empty save for a single chair.

Etymology

saveOld Frenchsafe or excepted

The French source could mark something kept apart or excepted. English save preserves that exception-making use, meaning excluding the named item.

More examples

Everyone agreed, save one stubborn member.
She remembered nothing, save the sound of bells.
All the shops closed, save the pharmacy.

Forms

save

Similar words

except: The ordinary alternative; save sounds more formal.
but: Can mean except after expressions such as everyone or nothing.