generalized

generalized
    adj 1: not biologically differentiated or adapted to a specific
           function or environment; "the hedgehog is a primitive and
           generalized mammal" [syn: {generalized}, {generalised}]
    

generalize \gen"er*al*ize\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Generalized};
   p. pr. & vb. n. {Generalizing}.] [Cf. F. g['e]n['e]raliser.]
   [Also spelled {generalise}.]
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   1. To bring under a genus or under genera; to view in
      relation to a genus or to genera.
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            Copernicus generalized the celestial motions by
            merely referring them to the moon's motion. Newton
            generalized them still more by referring this last
            to the motion of a stone through the air. --W.
                                                  Nicholson.
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   2. To apply to other genera or classes; to use with a more
      extensive application; to extend so as to include all
      special cases; to make universal in application, as a
      formula or rule.
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            When a fact is generalized, our discontent is
            quited, and we consider the generality itself as
            tantamount to an explanation.         --Sir W.
                                                  Hamilton.
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   3. To derive or deduce (a general conception, or a general
      principle) from particulars. [WordNet sense 2]

   Syn: generalize, extrapolate, infer.
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              A mere conclusion generalized from a great
              multitude of facts.                 --Coleridge.
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   4. To speak in generalities; to talk in abstract terms.
      [WordNet sense 1]

   Syn: generalise, speak generally.
        [WordNet 1.5]
    

Generalized \Gen"er*al*ized\, a. (Zool.)
   Comprising structural characters which are separated in more
   specialized forms; synthetic; as, a generalized type.
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