When people write catholic with a lowercase “c,” they mean universal or all-embracing. If someone has catholic tastes in music, they enjoy many different genres: classical, rock, jazz, country, and more. A reader with catholic interests might enjoy mysteries, biographies, science fiction, and poetry.

When something is catholic, it includes a wide range rather than staying narrow. A teacher with catholic knowledge knows about many subjects, not just one specialty. A museum might display catholic collections, showing art from many cultures and time periods.

You'll sometimes hear people say someone has “catholic tastes” when they appreciate many different things rather than being picky or limited in their interests. It's a compliment that suggests openness and broad curiosity.

Note that this is different from Catholic with a capital “C,” which refers to the Catholic Church or its members. The lowercase version is about being broad and inclusive in your interests or knowledge.