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Definition of general
(Entry 1 of 2)
1 : involving, applicable to, or affecting the whole
2 : involving, relating to, or applicable to every member of a class, kind, or group
the general equation of a straight line
3 : not confined by specialization or careful limitation
a general outline
4 : belonging to the common nature of a group of like individuals : generic the general characteristics of a species
5a : applicable to or characteristic of the majority of individuals involved : prevalent the general opinion
b : concerned or dealing with universal rather than particular aspects
6 : relating to, determined by, or concerned with main elements rather than limited details
bearing a general resemblance to the original
7 : holding superior rank or taking precedence over others similarly titled
the general manager
general
nounDefinition of general (Entry 2 of 2)
1 : something (such as a concept, principle, or statement) that involves or is applicable to the whole
2 : superior general
4a : general officer
b : a commissioned officer in the army, air force, or marine corps who ranks above a lieutenant general and whose insignia is four stars — compare admiral
in general
: for the most part : generally In general, things are going as planned.
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Time Traveler for general
The first known use of general was in the 13th century
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