generalized

1 of 2

adjective

gen·​er·​al·​ized ˈje-nə-rə-ˌlīzd 

ˈjen-rə-

: made general

especially : not highly differentiated biologically nor strictly adapted to a particular environment

generalized

2 of 2

past tense and past participle of generalize

Examples of generalized in a Sentence

Adjective

The patient has been experiencing generalized pain.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

The notion is that only those with a real stake in the dispute, not a generalized grievance, have the right to a hearing. — Ruth Marcus, New Yorker, 4 Sep. 2026

Because feeding needs can vary significantly from one infant to another, Bowers said generalized advice can sometimes lead parents in the wrong direction. — Toria Sheffield, PEOPLE, 30 Aug. 2026

Retinol has become somewhat generalized as a term for the broader category of retinoids. — Ellie Davis, Vogue, 28 Aug. 2026

Intuit believes its expanding AI capabilities can help defend its core businesses against generalized AI tools. — Sheryl Estrada, Fortune, 26 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1768, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing generalized

• generalized anxiety disorder

Rhymes for generalized

• americanized
• anathematized
• collateralized
• contextualized
• conventionalized
• demilitarized
• demineralized
• departmentalized
• depersonalized
• industrialised
• industrialized
• materialised

Medical Definition

generalized

adjective

gen·​er·​al·​ized

variants or British generalised

1

a

: spread or extended throughout the body : affecting many parts of the body

generalized paralysis

generalized aches and pains

b

: affecting or involving all of a single part or region of the body

generalized back pain

generalized mouth soreness

2

: not highly differentiated biologically nor strictly adapted to a particular environment

a primitive generalized mammal