concrete universal

noun

1

: a universal whose connotation is so particularized that it denotes one concrete reality especially an organized unity as distinguished from a universal that denotes any one of a class

—used by Hegelians to contrast terms such as man, book, church with those that denote a totality, as mankind, literature, the church

2

: something denoted by a concrete universal

The Ultimate Dicitonary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now