singularity

noun

sin·​gu·​lar·​i·​ty ˌsiŋ-gyə-ˈler-ə-tē How to pronounce singularity (audio)
-ˈla-rə-
plural singularities
1
: something that is singular: such as
a
: a separate unit
b
: unusual or distinctive manner or behavior : peculiarity
2
: the quality or state of being singular
3
: a point at which the derivative of a given function of a complex variable does not exist but every neighborhood of which contains points for which the derivative does exist
4
: a point or region of infinite mass density at which space and time are infinitely distorted by gravitational forces and which is held to be the final state of matter falling into a black hole

Examples of singularity in a Sentence

People could not understand the singularity of his imagination. a college professor with singularities of dress and speech that have long endeared him to his students
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Ultimately, singularity will likely unfold in a more earnest method. Syed Ahmed, Forbes.com, 29 May 2025 This sweetly reticent follow-up is a drama about the impenetrable singularity of a young girl’s mind. Justin Chang, New Yorker, 26 May 2025 Given the gravity and singularity of a White House visit, the majority of the players and coaching staff made their way to Washington, D.C. Orlando’s Denzel Aberdeen joined his former teammates despite his surprising decision to transfer to Kentucky for his final season. Edgar Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 22 May 2025 And while the interests of international law look unlikely to be served over the next four days, the trip, by virtue of its singularity, acts as a reminder of the new international constraints under which Israel’s leader now operates. Andrew Carey, CNN Money, 2 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for singularity

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of singularity was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Singularity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/singularity. Accessed 3 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

singularity

noun
sin·​gu·​lar·​i·​ty ˌsiŋ-gyə-ˈlar-ət-ē How to pronounce singularity (audio)
plural singularities
1
: the quality or state of being singular
2
: something that is singular : peculiarity
3
: a point or region of infinite density which is held to be the final state of matter falling into a black hole

More from Merriam-Webster on singularity

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