common noun

The definition of a common noun is a grammar term that refers to a generic or non-specific person, place or thing, as opposed to a specific one.

(noun)

An example of a common noun is "president" as opposed to "Barack Obama," since president is general while Barack Obama is a specific president and a proper noun.

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See common noun in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun
A noun, such as book or dog, that can be preceded by the definite article and that represents one or all of the members of a class.

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