general store

noun

1. a store, usually in a rural area, that sells a wide variety of merchandise, as clothing, food, or hardware, but is not divided into departments.

Word History and Origins

Origin of general store¹

An Americanism dating back to 1825–35

Example Sentences

Renowned for its Southern comfort food and down-home appeal, generations of Americans have wandered through the establishment’s general store decor and dined on its Southern comfort food.

From Los Angeles Times

Before her rescue, Ms Wilga was last seen at a general store in the town of Beacon, Western Australia, in her van on 29 June.

From BBC

Yomara Oxlha, who works at a general store in Boyle Heights across from a bus stop, said a quiet distrust of public services had spread in the community.

From Los Angeles Times

It is farther north than other sites on this list, nearest to the Coffee Creek community where there’s a general store that sells cold beer and sandwiches.

From Los Angeles Times

The focus is on merchandising locations, but those who study the image will spy an opera house and a general store, believed to be the first time such concepts appear.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• convenience store 
• trading post