universally
Americanadverb
adverb
Etymology
Origin of universally
Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400; see origin at universal, -ly
Explanation
Use the adverb universally to emphasize that something is done — or felt, or believed — in every single case. If your new haircut is universally loved, it means that everyone, everywhere — with no exceptions — is a fan of your super short bangs. You might also describe getting a filling at the dentist as universally disliked, or a brilliant sunny day as universally cheering after a week of rain. The root is Latin, the word universalis, "of or belonging to all," which in turn comes from universus, "whole or entire." When a feeling or belief belongs to everyone, everywhere, it is held universally.
Vocabulary lists containing universally
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
His universally acclaimed “Summer of Soul” dropped in June 2021, offering deep refreshment to thirsty concertgoers marooned in a barren season for live music.
From Salon • Jun. 7, 2026
"Modest in demeanour, yet monumental in achievement, Fergus never sought admiration, but earned it universally from team-mates, opponents, supporters and generations of young rugby players, who dreamed of following in his footsteps."
From BBC • Jun. 4, 2026
However, the review highlights mounting evidence that senescent cells are not universally harmful.
From Science Daily • May 22, 2026
LOS ANGELES—Spencer Pratt knows he doesn’t need to be universally liked.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 21, 2026
The need to make music, and to listen to it, is universally expressed by human beings.
From "The Lives of a Cell" by Lewis Thomas
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
