next-generation

adjective

next-gen·​er·​a·​tion ˈnekst-ˌje-nə-ˈrā-shən 

variants or less commonly next generation

: of or relating to a potential, forthcoming, or brand-new version of an existing product or technology : next-gen

The older hardware companies don't have the field to themselves. They're being challenged by waves of start-ups with next-generation technology.

—Bethany McLean

The finding has added fuel to a long-standing dispute over the Navy's next-generation sonar technology—a system that environmentalists say poses grave risks to marine mammals.

—David Kohn

Mr. [Lewis] Dale [General Motor's director of public policy] said the world's largest automaker spent $1 billion on electric vehicle and fuel cell research and prototype production in the past decade. He said GM doesn't want to make just 50,000 next generation vehicles, but rather sell millions.

—Mike Pare

Examples of next-generation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Together, these innovations enable consistent, repeatable motion, making the actuator well-suited for advanced engineering and next-generation robotic systems. —Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 26 Mar. 2026

Across its portfolio, art and design are woven into the retail landscape — serving as both inspiration and incubation platforms for emerging artists, students and next-generation creatives, while reinforcing the distinct identity of each destination. —Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 25 Mar. 2026

The battery cells are designed for next-generation drones, autonomous systems and other mission-critical platforms that require maximum energy in the smallest, lightest possible footprint, according to Fletcher. —Michael Wayland, CNBC, 24 Mar. 2026

Meanwhile, the private companies spearheading the design of these next-generation space stations are shoring up their resources. —Jackie Wattles, CNN Money, 21 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1965, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for next-generation

• abbreviation
• abomination
• acceleration
• accentuation
• accommodation
• accreditation
• acculturation
• accumulation
• acetylation
• adjudication
• administration
• adulteration