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DictionarysingleOne only
adjective / noun / verb

single

SING-guhl/ˈsɪŋɡl/

Consisting of or involving one unit alone.

A single ripe apple appears against a white background.

One solitary ripe apple centered on white, unmistakably one object.
Etymology
singleLatinone, individual, separate

Latin singulus presents someone or something individually, one apart from others. This connects both modern senses: one unit rather than several, and a person without a spouse or partner.

In context

Into Unseen World29:38
The statue is over 13ft tall, carved from a single block into a human shape with eyes and nose, hands and genitals.
Ancient Megalithic Structures: Massive Stones No One Can Explain | 4K Documentary

More examples

  • Each guest receives a single key.
  • She's single and isn't looking for a partner.
  • Can you change this five-dollar bill into five singles?
  • The coach singles out one player for praise.

Forms

single · singles · singled · singling

singly adverb — One at a time or separately.

Similar words

sole
Sole stresses being the only one in a role.
solitary
Solitary emphasizes being alone or apart from others.
individual
Individual emphasizes separate identity rather than number alone.