General
|gen-er-al|
B1
/ˈdʒɛnərəl/
(general)
widespread or common
Etymology
Etymology Information
'general' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'generalis,' where 'genus' meant 'kind' or 'type.'
Historical Evolution
'generalis' transformed into the Old French word 'general,' and eventually became the modern English word 'general' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'pertaining to a whole class or kind,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a high-ranking officer in the army, air force, or marines.
The general led his troops into battle.
Synonyms
Adjective 1
affecting or concerning all or most people, places, or things; widespread.
There was a general consensus on the issue.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/02/27 07:59