The word "but" typically functions as a conjunction and is used to indicate a contrast or exception to what has been said or mentioned before. It signifies a shift or contradiction in the information being presented. In this context, when the clue is "except," the word "but" can be used to introduce an exception or exclusion to a statement or condition.
Note: The provided meaning of the answer is for the latest New York Times crossword puzzle clue: Protester's word. Explanations are generated by AI and may be inaccurate.