generates; generated; generating
1
: to produce (something) or cause (something) to be produced
windmills used to generate electricity
generate heat
This business should generate a lot of revenue.
We hope to generate some new ideas at the meeting.
a computer-generated list [=a list that was made by a computer program]
2
: to be the cause of or reason for (something, such as interest or excitement)
His theories have generated a great deal of interest among other scientists.
Her comments have generated a good deal of excitement/controversy.
They have been unable to generate much support for their proposals.
Cite this Entry
“Generate.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/generate. Accessed 21 Jun. 2026.
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