A person who has broad knowledge and skills across many different fields rather than deep expertise in just one area.
From general plus -ist suffix (meaning 'one who practices or believes in'). Became common in English during the 19th century as specialization increased.
The tension between generalists and specialists has shaped entire institutions—universities debate whether to hire the brilliant polymath or the laser-focused expert, but many breakthroughs come from generalists connecting ideas across disciplines in unexpected ways!
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