—adj.
1 of, belonging to, or done etc. by all persons or things in the world or in the class concerned; applicable to all cases (the feeling was universal; met with universal approval).
2 Logic (of a proposition) in which something is asserted of all of a class (opp. PARTICULAR).
—n.
1 Logic a universal proposition.
2 Philos. a a term or concept of general application. b a nature or essence signified by a general term.
Phrases and idioms:
universal agent an agent empowered to do all that can be delegated. universal compass a compass with legs that may be extended for large circles. universal coupling (or joint) a coupling or joint which can transmit rotary power by a shaft at any selected angle. universal language an artificial language intended for use by all nations. universal proposition Logic a proposition in which the predicate is affirmed or denied of all members of a class (opp. particular proposition). universal suffrage a suffrage extending to all adults with minor exceptions. universal time = GREENWICH MEAN TIME.
Derivatives:
universality n. universalize v.tr. (also -ise). universalization n. universally adv.
Etymology: ME f. OF universal or L universalis (as UNIVERSE)
Useful english dictionary. 2012.