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

After proving a score, TruthScan lists factors such as unnatural speech patterns, generative signatures, and artificial intonation. —Connie Etemadi, Miami Herald, 9 Mar. 2026

Finally, pharmaceutical stocks are poised to be a winner in the generative artificial intelligence era, largely because AI tools are likely to boost research and development productivity. —Liz Napolitano, CNBC, 6 Mar. 2026

The Suite Team plan ($55 per person per month, billed annually) adds basic AI features (generative replies), a live chat widget, phone support, several AI tools for building a knowledge base, and support for more social media apps (WhatsApp and Instagram). —John Brandon, PC Magazine, 6 Mar. 2026

For English professor Dan Cryer, using generative artificial intelligence to write a college essay is like bringing a forklift to the gym. —Lee V. Gaines, NPR, 3 Mar. 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