singular

Etymology

From Middle English singuler, borrowed from Old French, from Latin singulāris (“alone of its kind”), from Latin singulus (“single”).

adj

1. Being only one of a larger population.
   A singular experiment cannot be regarded as scientific proof of the existence of a phenomenon.
2. Being the only one of the kind; unique.
   She has a singular personality.
3. Distinguished by superiority: peerless, unmatched, eminent, exceptional, extraordinary.
   a man of singular gravity or attainments
4. Out of the ordinary; curious.
   It was very singular; I don't know why he did it.
5. (grammar) Referring to only one thing or person.
6. (linear algebra, of matrix) Having no inverse.
7. (linear algebra, of transformation) Having the property that the matrix of coefficients of the new variables has a determinant equal to zero.
8. (set theory, of a cardinal number) Not equal to its own cofinality.
9. (law) Each; individual.
   to convey several parcels of land, all and singular
10. (obsolete) Engaged in by only one on a side; single.

noun

1. (grammar) A form of a word that refers to only one person or thing.
2. (logic) That which is not general; a specific determinate instance.