generator

noun

gen·​er·​a·​tor ˈje-nə-ˌrā-tər How to pronounce generator (audio)
1
: one that generates: such as
a
: an apparatus in which vapor or gas is formed
b
: a machine by which mechanical energy is changed into electrical energy
2
: a mathematical entity that when subjected to one or more operations yields another mathematical entity or its elements
specifically : generatrix

Did you know?

Generators work by rotating a coil of wire in a magnetic field, causing a current to flow in the wire. A generator may be a huge spinning turbine powered by water, wind, steam, gas, or nuclear reactions, which sends electricity out through power lines to thousands of customers. But normally when we use the word, we're thinking of a small machine powered by gasoline or diesel, such as you might keep in your basement for those times when a storm knocks out your power, to create electricity right in front of your eyes. A special kind of generator called an alternator powers a car's electrical system (including its lights, power steering, etc.) while the car is running.

Examples of generator in a Sentence

This new product will be a major revenue generator. a backup generator for the store
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.
Quebec is also considering taking similar measures with electricity exports to the U.S. Ford’s office said the new market rules require any generator selling electricity to the U.S. to add a 25% surcharge. Rob Gillies, Chicago Tribune, 10 Mar. 2025 Ford’s office said the new market rules require any generator selling electricity to the U.S. to add a 25% surcharge. Rob Gillies, Los Angeles Times, 10 Mar. 2025 Executive director Tania Hary said that it's expected to run on generators and produce around 2,500 cubic meters per day, about the amount in an Olympic swimming pool. TIME, 9 Mar. 2025 The generator was fully charged after approximately 8.5 hours of direct sunlight exposure. PCMAG, 6 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for generator

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of generator was in 1646

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Cite this Entry

“Generator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/generator. Accessed 17 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

generator

noun
gen·​er·​a·​tor ˈjen-ə-ˌrāt-ər How to pronounce generator (audio)
: one that generates: as
a
: a piece of laboratory equipment in which vapor or gas is formed
b
: a machine by which mechanical energy is changed into electrical energy

More from Merriam-Webster on generator

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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