single — only one; not married or in a romantic relationship
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: only one; not married or in a romantic relationship
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈsɪŋɡəl/
Example Sentences
- I ordered a single scoop of ice cream, but my diet is crying.
- She's been single for so long, her cat thinks it's her boyfriend.
- Please form a single line and wait for your turn.
single
ADJECTIVE[/ˈsɪŋɡəl/]
only one; not married or in a romantic relationship
Among many identical objects, only one stands alone clearly separated while all others remain grouped together.
Though single, I'll mingle when the bells jingle!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word derives from Latin 'singulus', meaning 'one by one' or 'individual'. It entered Middle English in the 14th century, initially retaining its sense of 'separate' or 'one', and subsequently developed the meaning 'unmarried' in English usage.
Breakdown
Latin singulus (one by one, individual) → English single. The Latin root singulus is related to Latin 'singuli' (individual things) and likely derives from an Indo-European root meaning 'one'.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“I ordered a single scoop of ice cream, but my diet is crying.”
“She's been single for so long, her cat thinks it's her boyfriend.”
“Please form a single line and wait for your turn.”
“Not a single person showed up to my surprise party. I guess it was too much of a surprise.”
📚Related Words
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