universality

noun

uni·​ver·​sal·​i·​ty ˌyü-nə-(ˌ)vər-ˈsa-lə-tē How to pronounce universality (audio)
1
: the quality or state of being universal
2
: universal comprehensiveness in range

Examples of universality in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This theme of universality also extends to the collection as a whole, which Peters notes only features a few characters who identify as trans. — Carly Tagen-Dye, People.com, 11 Mar. 2025 But there is a universality in longing for support and acceptance. — Seth Marumoto, Variety, 16 Feb. 2025 Nanette came at the height of the #MeToo movement and immediately following the first election of Donald Trump, but its themes contain a degree of universality that make the special just as essential a watch now as eight years ago. — Will Digravio, TIME, 21 Feb. 2025 By inaugurating the era of development aid, the U.S. was strategically using the concept of universality to undermine what was left of the British, French and Belgian colonial empires while guaranteeing its own access to new markets in developing countries. — Isabelle Mayault, The Dial, 13 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for universality

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of universality was in the 15th century

Rhymes for universality

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Browse Nearby Words

universalistic hedonism
universality
universalize
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Cite this Entry

“Universality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/universality. Accessed 31 Mar. 2025.

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universality

noun
uni·​ver·​sal·​i·​ty ˌyü-nə-(ˌ)vər-ˈsal-ət-ē How to pronounce universality (audio)
: the quality or state of being universal (as in range, occurrence, or appeal)
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