What does singular mean?
Singular describes something that consists of one person, thing, or unit rather than a group. In grammar, it names the number opposed to plural: a singular noun or verb refers to one person, thing, or action, while a plural refers to more than one. The adjective also conveys distinction or uniqueness, as in “a singular achievement,” suggesting that something stands out from ordinary experience. As a noun, singular can mean a grammatical form in the singular or, less commonly, a lone individual or item; as a verb, it is a rare term meaning to make a form singular. Singular is especially useful when precision matters, because it can identify a grammatical category, distinguish a single unit, or emphasize that something is exceptional. Though “single” can overlap with it, singular often adds a sense of individuality, uniqueness, or formal distinction.
Consisting of one person, thing, or unit; relating to a single item rather than a group. In grammar, denoting the number opposed to plural; also, exceptionally distinctive or unique.
"The singer delivered a singular performance that transformed the entire concert."
The grammatical sense is standard in educational and linguistic contexts. The sense of “exceptional” often suggests that something is unusually notable or remarkable.
A grammatical number or form that refers to one person, thing, or unit, as opposed to a plural; less commonly, a single individual or item.
"The teacher asked the students to change each plural into its singular."
The grammatical meaning is more common than the use of “a singular” to mean a lone individual.
To make or render a word or form singular.
"The editor singularized the expression so that it referred to only one institution."
This use is uncommon and is found mainly in technical, linguistic, or highly formal contexts.
This plural is grammatically possible but much less common in everyday use than the plural “plurals.”
"The exercise pairs singulars with their corresponding plurals."
From Latin singularis, meaning “single” or “individual,” singular keeps its ancient sense of standing apart from the many.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does singular come from?
English singular was borrowed from Latin singularis, meaning “single,” “individual,” or “one by one.” Latin singularis was derived from singulus, meaning “one apiece,” which is related to a wider Indo-European root associated with “one” or “same.” English cognates include single and singleton, while later forms such as singularity and singularly continue the same Latin foundation.
Related word forms
How singular is actually used
The adjective is standard in both formal and informal English. As a noun, “a singular” is relatively uncommon outside grammar, while as a verb the word is chiefly formal or technical. The expression “singular noun” refers to grammatical number, not to a noun that is unusual.
Easily confused with singular
Singular refers to one person, thing, or unit, whereas plural refers to more than one.