Definitions of universal

1. coupling that connects two rotating shafts allowing freedom of movement in all directions; " in motor vehicles a universal joint allows the driveshaft to move up and down as the vehicle passes over bumps"

2. The whole; the general system of the universe; the universe.

3. A general abstract conception, so called from being universally applicable to, or predicable of, each individual or species contained under it.

4. A universal proposition. See Universal, a., 4.

5. A general notion; a universal proposition.

6. In logic, a general abstract conception universally applicable to each individual or species contained under it.

7. Universally.

8. Constituting or considered as a whole; total; entire; whole; as, the universal world.

9. Adapted or adaptable to all or to various uses, shapes, sizes, etc.; as, a universal milling machine.

10. Forming the whole of a genus; relatively unlimited in extension; affirmed or denied of the whole of a subject; as, a universal proposition; -- opposed to particular; e. g. ( universal affirmative) All men are animals; ( universal negative) No men are omniscient.

11. Pertaining to the whole system of created things; general; entire; prevailing everywhere.

12. Comprehending, affecting, or extending to the whole: comprising all the particulars.

13. Comprehending all; affecting the whole.

14. Relating to the universe; unlimited; general; entire; total.

15. All; general; comprehending the whole number, quantity or space; total; whole; comprising all. Universal joint, a contrivance for giving motion obliquely to certain instruments. Universal proposition, one which affirms the predicate to belong to the whole of the subject.

16. Embracing or comprehending the whole; general; all; comprising all the particulars.