one-shot

American  

[wuhn-shot] / ˈwʌnˌʃɒt /

noun

1. a magazine, brochure, or the like that is published only one time, with no subsequent issues intended, usually containing articles and photographs devoted to one topical subject.

2. a single appearance by a performer, as in a play, motion picture, or television program.

3. a close-up camera shot of one person.

4. something occurring, done, used, etc., only once.

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adjective

1. occurring, done, etc., only once.

2. achieved or accomplished with a single try.

   a one-shot solution.

Etymology

Origin of one-shot

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

Rose, 45, was aiming to become the oldest first-time Masters champion and looked to be creating his own fairytale story when he moved into a one-shot lead midway through his final round.

From BBC • Apr. 12, 2026

Ryo Hisatsune rode a back-nine binge to an eight-under par 63 on Friday and a one-shot lead over fellow Japanese Hideki Matsuyama at the US PGA Tour Phoenix Open.

From Barron's • Feb. 7, 2026

Scottie Scheffler battled the worst of the torrential downpours that battered Royal Portrush to shoot a commanding 64 and open a one-shot lead over Matt Fitzpatrick at the halfway stage of The Open.

From BBC • Jul. 18, 2025

It seemed incredibly challenging — it’s basically a one-shot.

From Los Angeles Times • May 29, 2025

I sat there feeling myself a heretic, believing only in this one-shot life and the body.

From "Between the World and Me" by Ta-Nehisi Coates

Related Words

• alone