reproductive

1 of 2

adjective

re·​pro·​duc·​tive ˌrē-prə-ˈdək-tiv How to pronounce reproductive (audio)
: of, relating to, or capable of reproduction
highly reproductive wild geese
reproductively adverb

reproductive

2 of 2

noun

: an actual or potential parent
specifically : a sexually functional social insect

Examples of reproductive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
Gynecological Conditions Problems in the female reproductive organs can cause radiating pain to the lower right back. Brandi Jones, Health, 6 Sep. 2025 This pest’s reproductive pace speeds up with the heat. Rita Perwich, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 Sep. 2025
Noun
But the chronic condition, which data from the World Health Organization finds impacts anywhere from six to 13% of reproductive-aged women globally, also affects how someone will experience perimenopause and menopause. Sam Manzella, Flow Space, 2 Sep. 2025 These reproductives will have two sets of wings with the front pair longer than the hind pair. Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 30 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for reproductive

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1746, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1932, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of reproductive was in 1746

Cite this Entry

“Reproductive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reproductive. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

reproductive

adjective
re·​pro·​duc·​tive
ˌrē-prə-ˈdək-tiv
: of, relating to, or capable of reproduction

Medical Definition

reproductive

adjective
re·​pro·​duc·​tive ˌrē-prə-ˈdək-tiv How to pronounce reproductive (audio)
: of, relating to, functioning in, or capable of reproduction
reproductive organs
reproductively adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on reproductive

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