An umbrella term is a word that provides a superset or grouping of related concepts, also called a hypernym. For example, cryptology is an umbrella term that encompasses cryptography and cryptanalysis, among other fields. Similarly, an "umbrella organization" can be an organization which is a central and coordinating body representing a number of smaller, separate bodies.

Examples in archaeology/anthropology

• Grave goods
• Venus figurines: (They extend over diverse time periods.)
• Votive deposit: (They are 'essentially' in every human culture/"tribe".)
• Standing stone

Examples in earth science

• Punctuated equilibrium: Created 1972 in the category of Evolution, or Speciation, etc., but could obviously be applied to other "topics". Definition: (See Wiki page: Punctuated equilibrium contrasted against, Gradualism.)

Other examples

• Straw man (Two dictionary definitions)
• Psychokinesis (numerous psychic force abilities described under this term)
• Psychosis (describes nine distinct diagnoses)

Other umbrella terms

• Umbrella brand
• Umbrella fund
• Umbrella organization
• Umbrella school

See also

• Collective noun
• Generic antecedents
• Family resemblance (Analytic philosophy)

References

• Editors of Random House. Random House Webster's College Dictionary, Eds. of Random House, (Random House, New York), c 1992,1991. With various: Indices, Tables, Guides, etc., 1568 pgs.