Unique - Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

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SKIP TO CONTENT unique /juˈnik/ /juˈnik/ IPA guide

Other forms: uniquest; uniquer

If something is unique, it's the only one around. You might think getting a nose ring would make you unique, until you see five other people on the street with the same piercing.

If someone calls you unique you know that you are very special. The reason is that the Latin prefix uni- means "one." (Technically speaking, it isn't possible to be "very unique" — you either are or you're not.) Think of the prefix in unicorn for a creature with one horn and unicycle for a cycle with one wheel.

Definitions of unique

adjective the single one of its kind “the unique existing example of Donne's handwriting” “a unique copy of an ancient manuscript” “certain types of problems have unique solutions” synonyms: singular single existing alone or consisting of one entity or part or aspect or individual
adjective radically distinctive and without equal “Bach was unique in his handling of counterpoint” synonyms: alone, unequaled, unequalled, unparalleled incomparable, uncomparable such that comparison is impossible; unsuitable for comparison or lacking features that can be compared
adjective highly unusual or rare but not the single instance “spoke with a unique accent” “had unique ability in raising funds” “a frankness unique in literature” “a unique dining experience” synonyms: unusual not usual or common or ordinary
adjective (followed by `to') applying exclusively to a given category or condition or locality “a species unique to Australia” synonyms: specific (sometimes followed by `to') applying to or characterized by or distinguishing something particular or special or unique

Pronunciation US /juˈnik/ UK /juˈnik/ Cite this entry Style: MLA

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Vocabulary lists containing unique

Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List

A thorough survey of various textbooks, assignments, content area standards, and examinations yields the following list of words compiled by Jim Burke. You cannot expect to succeed on assignments if you do not understand the directions.

Power Prefix: uni-

Learn these words beginning with the power prefix uni-, meaning "one" or "having one only." Want to increase your prefix power? Learn our complete set of Power Prefix lists: anti-, con-, dis-, ex-, fore-, inter-, mis-, pre-, pro-, sub-, super-, trans-, uni-

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