unpaired
/'ʌn'peəd/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective 1. Not forming one of a pair; lacking a matching counterpart: Describes something that exists singly rather than as one of two identical or corresponding items. 2. (Biology/Anatomy) Occurring singly; not one of a symmetrical or paired set: Describes an organ or structure that is single and not found on both sides of an organism's body.
Usage
The adjective "unpaired" is used to describe an item that is alone because its partner is missing, or a biological structure that is singular by nature. It is often used in contexts involving clothing, objects, or anatomy.
Examples
- After doing the laundry, I found an unpaired sock. (The sock's matching partner is missing.)
- The human heart is an unpaired organ. (It is a single, central organ, not one of a symmetrical pair like lungs or kidneys.)
- The researcher studied the unpaired electron in the radical compound. (In chemistry, an electron not involved in bonding with another.)
Advanced Usage
- In Statistics/Experimental Design: Refers to data or samples that are not naturally matched or coupled. For example, an "unpaired t-test" compares the means of two independent groups.
- In Genetics: Can describe chromosomes that do not have a homologous partner during meiosis.
Variants and Related Words
- Unpair (verb): To separate a pair; to disconnect or disassociate two things that were linked.
- Example: You can unpair the Bluetooth device from your phone in the settings.
Synonyms
- Odd
- Single
- Solo
- Lone
- Mismatched (implies a failed pairing rather than inherent singularity)
Antonyms
- Paired
- Matched
- Coupled
- Double
Related Phrases and Concepts
- Odd one out: A common idiom for the single item that does not match the others in a set, similar in meaning to "unpaired" in a social or categorical context.
- Without a partner: A descriptive phrase meaning the same as "unpaired" in social or collaborative situations.
Adjective
- of the remaining member of a pair, of socks e.g.