general

1. general (adj) — sense 1

Definition: Including or involving every part or member of a given or implied entity, whole, etc.; common to all, universal.

Example: It is generall / To be mortall: / I haue well espyde / No man may hym hyde / From Deth holow eyed […].

2. general (adj) — sense 2

Definition: Applied to a person (as a postmodifier or a normal preceding adjective) to indicate supreme rank, in civil or military titles, and later in other terms; pre-eminent.

Example: For these successes he obtained the rank of Field-Marshal General.

3. general (adj) — sense 3

Definition: Prevalent or widespread among a given class or area; common, usual.

Example: ‘I can't quite afford you the sympathy you expect upon this score,’ I replied; ‘the misfortune is so general, that it belongs to one half of the species […].’

4. general (noun) — sense 4

Definition: The holder of a senior military title, originally designating the commander of an army and now a specific rank falling under field marshal (in the British army) and below general of the army or general of the air force in the US army and air forces.

Example: General Eisenhower was the first SACEUR.

5. general (noun) — sense 5

Definition: A great strategist or tactician.

Example: Hannibal was one of the greatest generals of the ancient world.

6. general (noun) — sense 6

Definition: A general fact or proposition; a generality.

Example: We have dealt with the generals; now let us turn to the particulars.

7. general (verb) — sense 7

Definition: To lead (soldiers) as a general.

Example: Generalled by Mrs. Hauksbee, who, again, had all Mrs. Mallowe's wisdom at her disposal, proud of himself and, in the end, believing in himself because he was believed in, Otis Yeere stood ready for any fortune that might befall, certain that it would be good.

8. general (adv) — sense 8

Definition: In a general or collective manner or sense; in most cases; upon the whole.