Emily Dickinson Lexicon

HOW-EV'ER, adv. [how and ever.]

1. In whatever manner or degree; as, however good or bad the style may be.
2. At all events; at least. Our chief end is to be freed from all, if it may be, however from the greatest evils. Tillotson.
3. Nevertheless; notwithstanding; yet. I shall not oppose your design; I cannot however approve of it. You might howe'er have took a fairer way. Dryden.