generative

adjective

gen·​er·​a·​tive ˈje-nə-rə-tiv 

ˈjen-rə-tiv, 

ˈje-nə-ˌrā-tiv 

: 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

Current generative simulations are unreliable, Mousavi acknowledged. — Davide Abbatescianni, Variety, 13 Oct. 2026

The move is designed to defend against and uncover attackers targeting generative artificial intelligence large-language models and AI agents, and to protect against emerging quantum threats, the companies said in a press release. — Caleigh Keating, CNBC, 12 Oct. 2026

Karyn Nakamura also took up Tarighian’s invitation to explore the research histories behind Veo 1 and other generative models, combining several video technologies in a single work. — Shanti Escalante-De Mattei, ARTnews.com, 12 Oct. 2026

In 2023, as the generative-AI boom first began, Boucher gave her consent to artists who wanted to use her voice in AI music. — Jaeden Pinder, Rolling Stone, 9 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing generative

• generative AI
• generative artificial intelligence
• generative cell
• generative grammar
• generative nucleus
• generative semantics

Rhymes for generative

• degenerative
• regenerative
• neurodegenerative

Medical Definition

generative

adjective

gen·​er·​a·​tive ˈjen-(ə-)rət-iv  -ə-ˌrāt- 

: having the power or function of propagating or reproducing

generative organs