Gen"er*al*ize (?), v. t. [imp.
& p. p. Generalized (?); p. pr. & vb.
n. Generalizing (?).] [Cf. F.
généraliser.]
1. To bring under a genus or under genera; to
view in relation to a genus or to genera.
Copernicus generalized the celestial motions by
merely referring them to the moon's motion. Newton generalized
them still more by referring this last to the motion of a stone
through the air.
W. Nicholson.
2. To apply to other genera or classes; to
use with a more extensive application; to extend so as to include all
special cases; to make universal in application, as a formula or
rule.
When a fact is generalized, our discontent is
quited, and we consider the generality itself as tantamount to an
explanation.
Sir W. Hamilton.
3. To derive or deduce (a general conception,
or a general principle) from particulars.
A mere conclusion generalized from a great
multitude of facts.
Coleridge.
Gen"er*al*ize, v. i. To form into
a genus; to view objects in their relations to a genus or class; to
take general or comprehensive views.
