problem of universals

proper noun

The open problem of whether the properties that an object has in common with other objects, such as color and shape, can be considered to exist beyond those objects, and if so, the precise nature of that existence.

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Meanings

proper nounthe problem of universals
  1. human sciencesThe open problem of whether the properties that an object has in common with other objects, such as color and shape, can be considered to exist beyond those objects, and if so, the precise nature of that existence.
Cite this entry
APA

problem of universals. (n.d.). In WatkinsX Dictionary. Retrieved November 4, 2026, from https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/problem%20of%20universals

MLA

“problem of universals.” WatkinsX Dictionary, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/problem%20of%20universals. Accessed November 4, 2026.

Chicago

WatkinsX Dictionary, s.v. “problem of universals,” accessed November 4, 2026, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/problem%20of%20universals.

Source: problem of universals on Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.