generator

noun

gen·​er·​a·​tor ˈje-nə-ˌrā-tər 

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.

Synonyms

• author
• begetter
• creator
• establisher
• father
• founder
• founding father
• inaugurator
• initiator
• instituter
• institutor
• originator
• sire

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

Many scramble to keep up with the stampede of developments, the rapid-fire transformation of industries, and the improbable output of AI image generators. —R. Daniel Foster, Forbes, 23 Dec. 2024

The Ram 1500 Ramcharger is expected to have 690 miles of range, achieved using a that combines a 92 kilowatt-hour battery pack with a 130-kilowatt generator that uses gasoline fuel. —Eileen Falkenberg-Hull, Newsweek, 18 Dec. 2024

As a result, the label released everything from these live cover versions to blues piano instrumentals to tone generator experiments to jams and complete freakouts. —Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone, 18 Dec. 2024

The vessel is equipped with two variable-speed generators that supply power to the ship’s main grid, storing excess energy in battery packs. —Julia Zaltzman, Robb Report, 16 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing generator

• electrostatic generator
• Van de Graaff generator

Kids Definition

generator

noun

gen·​er·​a·​tor ˈjen-ə-ˌrāt-ər 

: 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