at-large
UK: æt ˈlɑːdʒ | US: æt ˈlɑːrdʒ
adj. (of a representative) elected by or representing the whole of a political division (e.g., a state or city) rather than a specific district.
adj. (of a criminal or suspect) not yet captured or identified; free or unrestrained.
adv. in a broad or general manner; without specific focus.
The phrase "at-large" originates from Middle English, combining the preposition "at" (indicating position or state) with "large" (from Old French "large," meaning "broad" or "free"). Historically, "large" implied freedom from confinement (e.g., "at liberty"). By the 17th century, "at-large" evolved to describe representatives elected by a wider electorate (not confined to a district) and, later, fugitives unconfined by capture. The dual meanings reflect the core idea of unrestricted scope or freedom.
The city council has two members elected at-large.
The suspect remains at-large after escaping custody.
She spoke at-large about environmental policies without addressing local issues.
The committee discussed the topic at-large before narrowing their focus.
The journalist reported at-large on global trends rather than specific events.