generalization

noun

gen·​er·​al·​i·​za·​tion ˌjen-rə-lə-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce generalization (audio) ˌje-nə- How to pronounce generalization (audio)
1
: the act or process of generalizing
2
: a general statement, law, principle, or proposition
made broad generalizations about women
3
: the act or process whereby a learned response is made to a stimulus similar to but not identical with the conditioned stimulus

Examples of generalization in a Sentence

He made several sweeping generalizations about women. She was prone to generalization.
Recent Examples on the Web
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This though neglects the importance of AGI generalization, whereby the core element is that AI of this caliber is supposed to work across all manner of domains versus specializing in a specific domain such as chess. Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 4 July 2025 In the article, Fashion for Good argues that the generalization that cotton is a thirsty crop and claims that one kilogram of cotton fiber consumes 20,000 liters of water is inaccurate. Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 26 June 2025 The traditional approach of training a robot on action with reinforcement was very slow, but generative AI allows for much greater generalization. ArsTechnica, 24 June 2025 The Supreme Court has long held that law enforcement officers cannot detain people based on generalizations that would cast a wide net of suspicion on large segments of the law-abiding population. Brittny Mejia, Los Angeles Times, 15 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for generalization

Word History

Etymology

generalize + -ation

First Known Use

1761, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of generalization was in 1761

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Generalization.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/generalization. Accessed 11 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

generalization

noun
gen·​er·​al·​i·​za·​tion ˌjen-(ə-)rə-lə-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce generalization (audio)
1
: the act or process of generalizing
2
: a general statement, law, principle, or proposition

Medical Definition

generalization

noun
gen·​er·​al·​iza·​tion
variants or British generalisation
1
: the action or process of becoming widespread or diffuse
secondary generalization of a partial seizure
2
: the act or process whereby a learned response is made to a stimulus similar to but not identical with the conditioned stimulus

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