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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 groupthe general equation of a straight line
3: not confined by specialization or careful limitationa general outline
4: belonging to the common nature of a group of like individuals : GENERICthe general characteristics of a species
5a: applicable to or characteristic of the majority of individuals involved : PREVALENTthe 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 detailsbearing a general resemblance to the original
7: holding superior rank or taking precedence over others similarly titledthe general manager
general
noun
Definition of general (Entry 2 of 2)
1: something (such as a concept, principle, or statement) that involves or is applicable to the whole
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 : GENERALLYIn general, things are going as planned.
The first known use of general was in the 13th century