generator
UK: ˈdʒenəreɪtə | US: ˈdʒenəreɪtər
n. a machine that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy
n. a person or thing that generates or produces something
n. (computing) a program or algorithm that creates data or sequences
The word "generator" stems from the Latin verb generare ("to produce, create"), derived from genus ("birth, kind"). The suffix -or (Latin -or, agent noun suffix) was added to form generator, meaning "one who generates." The term entered English in the 17th century, initially referring to biological reproduction before expanding to mechanical and computational contexts. The morpheme generate preserves its core meaning of production, while -or marks the agent (machine/person performing the action).
The hospital installed a backup generator to ensure power during outages.
She is a prolific generator of innovative ideas for the project.
The software includes a random password generator for enhanced security.
Wind turbines act as generators of renewable energy.
His role as a content generator requires creativity and consistency.