general-purpose

adjective

gen·​er·​al-pur·​pose ˈjen-rəl-ˈpər-pəs How to pronounce general-purpose (audio)
ˈje-nə-
Synonyms of general-purposenext
: suitable to be used for two or more basic purposes

Examples of general-purpose in a Sentence

a general-purpose glue for routine household repairs
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
ChatGPT is a general-purpose tool used by hundreds of millions of people every day for legitimate purposes. Bydeena Zaru, ABC News, 11 May 2026 Australia signed contracts for the first three general-purpose frigates on April 18, 2026. Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 11 May 2026 Haenni recommends using a balanced, general-purpose houseplant fertilizer three to four times a year during the growing season. Rachel Gillett, Martha Stewart, 5 May 2026 Start with a balanced, general-purpose fertilizer and follow the label dosage. Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Miami Herald, 29 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for general-purpose

Word History

First Known Use

1894, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of general-purpose was in 1894

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“General-purpose.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/general-purpose. Accessed 17 May. 2026.

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