a word used by old writers in the sense of incomparable, matchless, of unequalled excellence. The following examples are taken from king Edward VI's Primer: "Breathe into my heart by thy Holy Spirit this most precious and singular gift of faith, which worketh by charity,… that When thou shalt call me out of this careful life [a life full of cares], I may enjoy that thy most singular and last benefit, which is everlasting glory through Jesus Christ our Lord." — Staunton, Dict. of the Church, s.v.