Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English homepage

Language: Old English
Origin: elles

else

 adverb
     
else S1 W1
1 [used after words beginning with 'some-', 'every-', 'any-', and 'no-', and after question words]
a) besides or in addition to someone or something:
There's something else I'd like to talk about as well.
I'd like you to come, and anyone else who's free.
He was awake now, as was everyone else.
Who else was at the party?
'Two coffees, please.' 'Anything else?' 'No, thanks.'
Above all else (=more than any other things) she was seeking love.
b) used to talk about a different person, thing, place etc:
I'd like to live anywhere else but here.
If I can't trust you, who else can I trust?
2

or else

spoken
a) used to say that there will be a bad result if someone does not do something:
Hurry up or else we'll miss the train.
b) used to say what another possibility might be:
The salesman will reduce the price or else include free insurance.
c) used to threaten someone:
Hand over the money, or else!
 ➔ see usage note unless
3 British English spoken used after a question word to say that the thing, person, or place you have mentioned is the only one possible:
'What are you doing?' 'Waiting for you, what else?'
4

what else can somebody do/say?

spoken used to say that it is impossible to do or say anything apart from what has been mentioned:
'Will you really sell the house? ' 'What else can I do? I can't live here.'

➔ if nothing else

at nothing1 (11)

➔ be something else

at something (9)
Definition from the Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English
Advanced Learner's Dictionary.

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