universal

(noun) (linguistics) a grammatical rule (or other linguistic feature) that is found in all languages. Synonyms: linguistic universal.

(noun) (logic) a proposition that asserts something of all members of a class. Synonyms: universal proposition.

(noun) a behavioral convention or pattern characteristic of all members of a particular culture or of all human beings. Example: "Some form of religion seems to be a human universal."

(noun) coupling that connects two rotating shafts allowing freedom of movement in all directions. Synonyms: universal joint. Example: "In motor vehicles a universal joint allows the driveshaft to move up and down as the vehicle passes over bumps."

(adj) of worldwide scope or applicability. Synonyms: cosmopolitan, ecumenical, oecumenical, general, worldwide, world-wide. Examples: "An issue of cosmopolitan import." "The shrewdest political and ecumenical comment of our time"- christopher morley." "Universal experience."

(adj) applicable to or common to all members of a group or set. Examples: "The play opened to universal acclaim." "Rap enjoys universal appeal among teenage boys."

(adj) adapted to various purposes, sizes, forms, operations. Examples: "Universal wrench", "universal chuck." "Universal screwdriver."