generative

adjective

gen·​er·​a·​tive ˈje-nə-rə-tiv How to pronounce generative (audio)
ˈjen-rə-tiv
ˈje-nə-ˌrā-tiv How to pronounce generative (audio)
Synonyms of generativenext
: having the power or function of generating, originating, producing, or reproducing
… Elizabeth Gilbert dives into her own generative process to share her wisdom and unique perspective about creativity.Camryn La Sala
… her gift is essentially organizational rather than generative.Martin Filler
: such as
a
biology : of or relating to the production of offspring
vegetative and generative plant growth
the generative organs of mammals
see also generative cell, generative nucleus
b
computing : using artificial intelligence algorithms to create complete units of content (such as text compositions, images, audio, or video) based on a broad corpus of material
The newest models also come with AI integration that allows them to summarize text with generative technology.Cody D. Campbell
see also generative AI

Examples of generative in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But the generative possibilities and consumer demand demonstrated in the brief history of AI music to date aren’t going to be forgotten. Spencer Kornhaber, The Atlantic, 22 Dec. 2025 Especially for tasks like vision and generative image creation. Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 20 Dec. 2025 The discussion formed part of a broader industry forum convened by Kling AI examining how generative tools are reshaping creative practice across art, education and screen industries. Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 20 Dec. 2025 Part of Gen Z’s draw to the comments section is its participatory and generative nature. Lucy Maguire, Vogue, 18 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for generative

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of generative was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Generative.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/generative. Accessed 31 Dec. 2025.

Medical Definition

generative

adjective
gen·​er·​a·​tive ˈjen-(ə-)rət-iv How to pronounce generative (audio) -ə-ˌrāt- How to pronounce generative (audio)
: having the power or function of propagating or reproducing
generative organs

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