Einzel

Einzel is a German term that functions as an adjective and, in many fixed phrases, as a noun referring to a single item or to a particular person. In everyday language it signals singularity or individuality and is most often encountered in compounds and set phrases rather than as a freely used standalone word.

Etymology: The root of Einzel is the same as the German word for one, ein, and the form has been used since the Middle High German period to denote "single" or "distinct." As a base, it appears in compounds that describe one element within a larger group, rather than as a general solo noun on its own.

Common uses include a range of well-established compounds. Examples are Einzelhandel (retail trade), Einzelzimmer (single hotel room), Einzelstück (one-of-a-kind piece), and Einzelperson (an individual). The phrase im Einzelnen means in detail. Derivative terms such as Einzelgänger (loner) also employ the root to convey individuality or separateness.

As a surname, Einzel occurs in German-speaking regions. In linguistics and everyday language, the prefix Einzel- forms numerous nouns and adjectives that denote a single item, person, or element within a set; it is primarily productive in compounds rather than used as an independent word.