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

Former US Open champion Matt Fitzpatrick hit a superb, bogey-free 63 to claim a one-shot lead over Viktor Hovland after a punishing second round at the RBC Heritage in South Carolina.

From BBC • Apr. 18, 2026

McIlroy briefly reclaimed a one-shot lead but gave that back with a bogey on 17, bending over in exasperation when he left a par putt just short.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 11, 2026

Former Masters champion Patrick Reed powered into a one-shot lead at the halfway stage of the Dubai Desert Classic on Friday with a bogey-free 66.

From Barron's • Jan. 23, 2026

America's Sam Burns will take a one-shot lead into Sunday's final round of the US Open after a terrific finish to the third round at Oakmont.

From BBC • Jun. 14, 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