Why are generics called generics?

Question

At the risk of becoming the village idiot, can someone explain to me why generics are called generics? I understand their usage and benefits, but if the definition of generic i

Answer 1

bool Equals(int x, int y)

The above method can only compare integers, so we can say that it is specialized for comparing integers.

bool Equals(T x, T y);

The above method can compare values of any type, so we can say that it isn't specialized for any particular type - it's generic.