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

This marks the first time the NRC has issued a construction permit for a commercial advanced reactor, representing a major regulatory milestone for next-generation nuclear energy. —Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 1 Apr. 2026

Starship, SpaceX's next-generation rocket system, is a key part of NASA's efforts to return to the moon. —Charlie Gile, NBC news, 1 Apr. 2026

Shareef O’Neal became the creative strategist for the Shaq Brand, leading efforts to bring a fresh vision that bridges sports, culture and next-generation storytelling. —Etan Vlessing, HollywoodReporter, 30 Mar. 2026

Private space companies SpaceX and Blue Origin are developing next-generation spacecraft, rovers and drones to facilitate the American Moon base. —Scott Solomon, The Conversation, 27 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