generalize

verb

gen·​er·​al·​ize ˈjen-rə-ˌlīz How to pronounce generalize (audio) ˈje-nə- How to pronounce generalize (audio)
generalized; generalizing

transitive verb

1
: to give a general form to
2
a
: to derive or induce (a general conception or principle) from particulars
b
: to draw a general conclusion from
3
: to give general applicability to
generalize a law
also : to make indefinite

intransitive verb

1
: to form generalizations
also : to make vague or indefinite statements
She's always generalizing about men.
2
: to spread or extend throughout the body
generalizability noun
generalizable adjective
generalizer noun

Examples of generalize in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Additionally, the samples were only taken in the Palouse region and may not be generalized to all the Pacific Northwest. Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 22 May 2026 This has allowed mathematicians to generalize those ideas to a much broader range of settings — and to prove important statements in a wide variety of fields. Konstantin Kakaes, Quanta Magazine, 20 May 2026 The system is designed to generalize across embodiments, including single-arm, dual-arm, and humanoid robots, enabling more adaptive and capable robotic manipulation in industrial environments, according to TRR. Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 12 May 2026 Enormous resources have been invested in AI development, especially large language models, which are now being generalized into world models that enable physical AI capabilities. IEEE Spectrum, 30 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for generalize

Word History

Etymology

general entry 1 + -ize

First Known Use

1710, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of generalize was in 1710

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Generalize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/generalize. Accessed 28 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

generalize

verb
gen·​er·​al·​ize ˈjen-(ə-)rə-ˌlīz How to pronounce generalize (audio)
generalized; generalizing
: to put in the form of a general rule : draw or state a general conclusion from a number of items or instances

Medical Definition

generalize

intransitive verb
gen·​er·​al·​ize
variants or British generalise
generalized or British generalised; generalizing or British generalising
: to spread or extend through all of a body part or region or through most of the entire body

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