individuality
UK: ˌɪn.dɪ.vɪdʒ.uˈæl.ə.ti | US: ˌɪn.də.vɪdʒ.uˈæl.ə.ti
n. the quality or character of a particular person or thing that distinguishes them from others
n. the distinct personality or identity of an individual
individuality = in<not> + divid<divide> + uality<noun suffix denoting quality>
- in (Latin prefix meaning "not")
- divid (from Latin dividuus, meaning "divisible" or "divided")
- uality (noun-forming suffix derived from Latin -itas, indicating a state or quality)
Etymology Origin:
The word "individuality" traces back to the Latin individuus ("indivisible"), combining in- (negation) + dividuus ("divisible"). Originally used in medieval philosophy to describe atoms or indivisible entities, it later evolved to emphasize the uniqueness of a person—something that cannot be divided or replicated. The suffix -ity formalized it as an abstract noun in English, reflecting the Enlightenment-era focus on personal identity.
Her artistic individuality shines through in every brushstroke.
The school encourages students to express their individuality.
Modern society often struggles to balance conformity and individuality.
His quirky fashion sense is a mark of his strong individuality.
The documentary explores the loss of individuality in mass culture.