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 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

Once the most feared puncher in the division and perhaps the greatest one-shot finisher of all time, the old Wilder would likely have dispatched Herndon earlier and to more fanfare.

From BBC • Jun. 28, 2025

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

From Los Angeles Times • May 29, 2025

Woods was clinging to a one-shot lead after bogeys on the previous two holes.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 12, 2025

“I hope that wasn’t a one-shot deal,” he said.

From "The House of the Scorpion" by Nancy Farmer

Related Words

• alone