single-family

UK: ˈsɪŋɡəl ˈfæməli | US: ˈsɪŋɡəl ˈfæməli

Definition
  1. adj. relating to or designed for one family (e.g., a single-family home)

Structure
single <one>family <household>
Etymology

The term combines "single," from Latin singulus (meaning "one" or "individual"), with "family," from Latin familia (referring to a household or domestic unit). The compound emerged in English to describe residential structures intended for occupancy by one household, distinguishing them from multi-family dwellings like apartments. The logic reflects societal categorization of housing types by occupancy scale.

Examples
  1. The neighborhood consists mostly of single-family homes with spacious yards.

  2. They decided to buy a single-family house for more privacy.

  3. Zoning laws in this area restrict construction to single-family residences.

  4. The real estate market shows high demand for single-family properties.

  5. Living in a single-family unit offers more independence than shared housing.