Main Entry: ¹for·ma·tive

Pronunciation: \ˈfȯr-mə-tiv\

Function: adjective

Date: 15th century

1 a : giving or capable of giving form : constructive <a formative influence> b : used in word formation or inflection
2 : capable of alteration by growth and development; also : producing new cells and tissues
3 : of, relating to, or characterized by formative effects or formation <formative years>

— for·ma·tive·ly adverb