individual

¹in·di·vid·u·al

adj
\ˌin-də-ˈvij-wəl, -ˈvi-jə-wəl, -ˈvi-jəl, -ˈvi-jü-əl\

Definition of INDIVIDUAL

1

obsolete : inseparable

2

a : of, relating to, or distinctively associated with an individual <an individual effort> b : being an individual or existing as an indivisible whole c : intended for one person <an individual serving>

3

: existing as a distinct entity : separate

4

: having marked individuality <an individual style>

— in·di·vid·u·al·ly adverb

Examples of INDIVIDUAL

1. What are the individual traits of the breed?
2. The doctor carefully evaluates the individual needs of her patients.
3. Students will receive as much individual attention as possible.
4. She has a very individual style of writing.
5. a pattern as individual as a fingerprint

Origin of INDIVIDUAL

Medieval Latin individualis, from Latin individuus indivisible, from in- + dividuus divided, from dividere to divide

First Known Use: 15th century

Related to INDIVIDUAL

Synonyms: idiomatic, individualized, particular, patented, peculiar, personal, personalized, private, privy, separate, singular, subjective, unique

Antonyms: general, generic, popular, public, shared, universal

Related Words: characteristic, distinctive, intimate; identifying, idiosyncratic; especial, express, special, specific; independent, nonconformist, self-directed, self-sufficient; custom, customized, specialized

Near Antonyms: broad, prevailing, prevalent, widespread; common, normal, regular, typical

see all synonyms and antonyms

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See Synonym Discussion at special, characteristic