Solo means doing something alone, without help or company from others. When a musician performs solo, they play or sing by themselves rather than with a band or orchestra. A solo flight is when a pilot flies an airplane with no instructor or passengers aboard.

In music, a solo can also be a featured section where one instrument or voice takes center stage while others stay quiet or provide background support. Think of a guitar solo in a rock song, where the guitarist steps forward to play an impressive melody while the rest of the band supports them.

You might go on a solo adventure to the library, work on a project solo instead of with a group, or eat lunch solo when your friends are absent. Flying solo has a special meaning beyond aviation: it means handling something independently for the first time, like when you finally ride your bike to school solo after your parents have been accompanying you.

The plural form is solos. Being comfortable working solo is valuable, but so is knowing when collaboration makes more sense. Some tasks, like writing an essay or practicing an instrument, often work better solo. Others, like moving heavy furniture or playing soccer, usually need teammates.