The term omnibus (from the Latin dative plural of omnis, meaning "for all") refers to something that covers many different items, subjects, or people at once.
Its meaning varies significantly depending on the context:
1. Literature & Media
Books: A single volume containing a collection of several works, such as a complete series or multiple stories by the same author.
Comics: Oversized editions that compile entire runs or massive story arcs into one book.
Broadcasting: A radio or television program that compiles multiple previously aired episodes into one continuous broadcast (common in the UK).
2. Law & Politics
Omnibus Bill: A single piece of legislation that packages many smaller, often unrelated bills or appropriations into one massive document for a single vote.
Omnibus Order: In bankruptcy law, a final court order authorizing multiple transactions or documents simultaneously.
EU Directives: Recent Omnibus Packages focus on streamlining reporting requirements to reduce administrative costs for businesses.
3. Transportation & Technology
Vehicles: The original, less common word for a bus.
Software: Tools like Audiomovers OMNIBUS for audio routing or Chef Omnibus for creating full-stack installers.
Surveys: A multi-client research study where various companies share the cost of a survey to ask their own specific questions.