singles

Singles is a term used to describe people who are not currently in a romantic or marital relationship. The concept encompasses those who are dating casually, those who prefer not to partner, and individuals content with being single. Demographic patterns vary by age, culture, and socioeconomic status. In many high-income countries, a growing share of adults remain unmarried or unpartnered longer than in the past, due to education and career priorities, economic considerations, changing attitudes toward marriage, and access to birth control. Sociologists study singles in relation to social networks, household formation, and urban living. Being single can involve greater independence, social activity, and financial autonomy, but may also affect social support, loneliness, and mental health; evidence regarding well-being among singles is mixed and often mediated by relationship quality, social connectedness, and purpose.

In music, a single is a release featuring typically one to three songs, designed to promote an album or artist. Singles were historically issued on vinyl with an A-side and B-side, but digital distribution has reshaped formats. Chart performance, radio airplay, and streaming data determine a single’s commercial success, and singles often precede full albums.

In sports, a single refers to a base hit that allows the batter to reach first base without fielding errors or being forced out. The term is used in baseball and softball.