generalized

adjective

gen·​er·​al·​ized ˈje-nə-rə-ˌlīzd 

ˈjen-rə-

: made general

especially : not highly differentiated biologically nor strictly adapted to a particular environment

Examples of generalized in a Sentence

The patient has been experiencing generalized pain.

Recent Examples on the Web

When faced with uncertainty, humans often seek answers, whether in the generalized predictions of horoscopes or in the question-and-answer format of a Magic 8 Ball. —Elizabeth Djinis, Smithsonian Magazine, 31 Oct. 2024

Inflation is a generalized rise in prices, affecting different goods and services throughout the economy, such as gas, rent and food. —Olivia Munson, USA TODAY, 4 Nov. 2024

The bottom line: Elevating Kennedy to a position of power could ultimately lead to more vaccine hesitancy, more infectious disease, less trust in public health institutions and generalized distrust of the health care system. —Caitlin Owens, Axios, 3 Nov. 2024

Combined with a growing perception of generalized disorder in American cities, this fear of imminent violence has led to a distaste in many Asian communities for the various progressive district attorneys that have won elections across the country—and who are now frequently being challenged. —Yiyun Li, Harper's Magazine, 23 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1768, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing generalized

• generalized anxiety disorder

Medical Definition

generalized

adjective

gen·​er·​al·​ized

variants or British generalised

1

a

: spread or extended throughout the body : affecting many parts of the body

generalized paralysis

generalized aches and pains

b

: affecting or involving all of a single part or region of the body

generalized back pain

generalized mouth soreness

2

: not highly differentiated biologically nor strictly adapted to a particular environment

a primitive generalized mammal