generator

[ jen-uh-rey-ter ]

noun

1. a machine that converts one form of energy into another, especially mechanical energy into electrical energy, as a dynamo, or electrical energy into sound, as an acoustic generator.
2. a person or thing that generates.
3. Chemistry. an apparatus for producing a gas or vapor.
4. Mathematics.
   1. an element or one of a set of elements from which a specified mathematical object can be formed by applying certain operations.
   2. an element, as a line, that generates a figure.
5. Computers. a program that produces a particular type of output on demand, as random numbers, an application program, or a report.

generator

/ ˈdʒɛnəˌreɪtə /

noun

1. physics
   1. any device for converting mechanical energy into electrical energy by electromagnetic induction, esp a large one as in a power station
   2. a device for producing a voltage electrostatically
   3. any device that converts one form of energy into another form

      an acoustic generator

2. an apparatus for producing a gas
3. a person or thing that generates

generator

1. A device that produces electric current (see also current ), usually by rotating a conductor in a magnetic field , thereby generating current through electromagnetic induction . This sort of generator produces an alternating current (AC) .

Word History and Origins

Origin of generator¹

1640–50; < Latin generātor producer, equivalent to generā ( re ) ( generate ) + -tor -tor

Example Sentences

The "integrated stress response" acts much like a generator in a hurricane, keeping the cell barely functioning until it can recover from the stressor and restore full functionality.

From Science Daily

Mahama's parents were able to invest in a diesel generator for their six-bedroom house, meaning theirs was the only house in the town with lights.

From BBC

Last week, the government banned all activities that involve the use of coal and firewood, as well as diesel generator use for non-emergency services.

From BBC

One pump was completely destroyed in the blaze while another lost power during Southern California Edison’s planned electricity shutoffs, and it took hours to bring it back online with a generator, according to officials at the Calleguas Municipal Water District.

From Los Angeles Times

Cohen said electricity was cut to the pump at 2 p.m. and did not get a generator to restore operation until 11 p.m. the first day of the fire.

From Los Angeles Times