Synonyms: universal, universal joint
Definition: coupling that connects two rotating shafts allowing freedom of movement in all directions
Usage: in motor vehicles a universal joint allows the driveshaft to move up and down as the vehicle passes over bumps
Similar words: coupler, coupling
Definition: a mechanical device that serves to connect the ends of adjacent objects
Synonyms: universal
Definition: a behavioral convention or pattern characteristic of all members of a particular culture or of all human beings
Usage: some form of religion seems to be a human universal
Similar words: convention, formula, pattern, normal, rule
Definition: something regarded as a normative example
Usage: the convention of not naming the main character; violence is the rule not the exception; his formula for impressing visitors
Synonyms: universal, universal proposition
Definition: (logic) a proposition that asserts something of all members of a class
Similar words: proposition
Definition: (logic) a statement that affirms or denies something and is either true or false
Synonyms: universal, linguistic universal
Definition: (linguistics) a grammatical rule (or other linguistic feature) that is found in all languages
Similar words: linguistic rule, rule
Definition: (linguistics) a rule describing (or prescribing) a linguistic practice
Synonyms: oecumenical, cosmopolitan, ecumenical, world-wide, worldwide, universal, general
Definition: of worldwide scope or applicability
Usage: an issue of cosmopolitan import; the shrewdest political and ecumenical comment of our time- Christopher Morley; universal experience
Similar words: comprehensive
Definition: including all or everything
Usage: comprehensive coverage; a comprehensive history of the revolution; a comprehensive survey; a comprehensive education
Synonyms: universal
Definition: adapted to various purposes, sizes, forms, operations
Usage: universal wrench, universal chuck; universal screwdriver
Similar words: adaptable
Definition: capable of adapting (of becoming or being made suitable) to a particular situation or use
Usage: to succeed one must be adaptable; the frame was adaptable to cloth bolts of different widths
Synonyms: universal
Definition: applicable to or common to all members of a group or set
Usage: the play opened to universal acclaim; rap enjoys universal appeal among teenage boys
Similar words: general
Definition: applying to all or most members of a category or group
Usage: the general public; general assistance; a general rule; in general terms; comprehensible to the general reader