reproductive

1 of 2

adjective

re·​pro·​duc·​tive ˌrē-prə-ˈdək-tiv 

: 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

Adjective

In Nepal, cuts to nutrition and reproductive outreach programs have already increased pregnancy complications and deaths, according to health workers, government officials, aid workers and families interviewed by the AP. — ABC News, 13 Aug. 2026

Though males are wingless and females can fly short distances, that reproductive efficiency — combined with its tiny size and penchant for hiding in wood — has supercharged a rapid spread across South Africa. — Jack Bantock, CNN Money, 13 Aug. 2026

Noun

In addition, if a yard near you is not managed, winged reproductives will fly off to start new colonies, and that can be in your garden. — Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 17 July 2026

Doctors have renamed polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) to polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS) to better reflect the wide-ranging symptoms of the condition that affects about 10%-13% of reproductive-aged women. — Sydney Lake, Fortune, 14 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1746, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1932, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing reproductive

• reproductive isolation
• reproductive rights
• reproductive system

Rhymes for reproductive

• deconstructive
• nondestructive
• nonproductive
• reconstructive
• unproductive
• abductive
• conductive
• constructive
• deductive
• destructive
• inductive
• instructive

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 

: of, relating to, functioning in, or capable of reproduction

reproductive organs

reproductively adverb