unique: Meaning and Definition of

u•nique

Pronunciation: (y-nēk'), [key]
— adj.
  1. existing as the only one or as the sole example; single; solitary in type or characteristics: a unique copy of an ancient manuscript.
  2. having no like or equal; unparalleled; incomparable: Bach was unique in his handling of counterpoint.
  3. limited in occurrence to a given class, situation, or area: a species unique to Australia.
  4. limited to a single outcome or result; without alternative possibilities: Certain types of problems have unique solutions.
  5. not typical; unusual: She has a very unique smile.
—n.
  1. the embodiment of unique characteristics; the only specimen of a given kind: The unique is also the improbable.
Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright © 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease.
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