singular
/ˈsɪŋɡjʊlə/
In a grammatical context, the word is purely technical and neutral, serving as the binary opposite of 'plural'. When used to describe quality or personality, it carries a sense of isolation or uniqueness. It suggests something that stands entirely alone because no other example like it exists. Depending on the context, this uniqueness can be highly positive (meaning 'superlative' or 'unparalleled') or slightly unsettling (meaning 'eccentric' or 'weird'). While 'unique' is often neutral, 'singular' frequently implies a level of intensity or oddity that draws attention.
💬Casual Conversation
That guy's playstyle is pretty singular, ngl.
Fr? I just thought he was bad.
Meanings
Collocations & Compounds
singular form
The form of a word used to refer to a single item or person.
The verb agrees with the noun in the singular form.
singular noun
A noun that denotes one person, thing, or idea.
In English, 'child' is a singular noun, while 'children' is plural.
singular item
A single, distinct object or piece.
Each singular item on the list must be accounted for.
singular talent
An exceptional and unique ability or gift.
Her singular talent for painting was evident from a young age.
singular purpose
A sole and undivided objective or aim.
He pursued his goal with singular purpose.
Idioms & Sayings
of singular importance
Extremely important; of paramount significance.
The discovery of the new element was a finding of singular importance.
singular to
Unique or peculiar to a particular person, place, or thing.
This type of behavior is singular to the adolescent phase.
Etymology
The word 'singular' comes from the Latin word 'singularis', meaning 'single, individual, one'. It entered English in the late Middle Ages, initially referring to grammatical number (one as opposed to plural). Over time, its meaning expanded to encompass uniqueness, extraordinariness, and exceptional quality.