Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˌdʒɛnəˈreɪʃən/

Definitions

1. The process of producing offspring or new individuals, particularly in the context of human beings or animals.

2. A group of individuals born and living around the same time, typically in relation to a specific event or cultural context.

3. The production or creation of something, such as energy or ideas, from a set of conditions or materials.

Usage Examples

• Each generation faces unique challenges, but they also have the opportunity to create change.
• The energy generation process in the plant uses wind turbines to produce electricity.

Etymology

From the Latin word "generatio," meaning "a begetting or producing," derived from "generare" (to produce or beget), which comes from "genus," meaning "birth" or "race." The word "generation" has been used in English since the 14th century to refer to the act of creating or producing something.

Synonyms

• Generation
• Progeny
• Offspring
• Lineage
• Era
• Age

Antonyms

• Destruction
• Decline
• Extinction
• Obsolescence

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "generation" can vary slightly between accents, with speakers from North America typically emphasizing the first syllable, while in British English, there may be a slight emphasis on the second syllable.

Historical Usage

Historically, the term "generation" has been used since the 14th century in English, initially referring to the process of begetting or producing offspring. Over time, the term expanded to include groups of individuals born during a specific time period, particularly in reference to societal and technological changes.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, the concept of "generation" is deeply tied to social structures, family lineage, and heritage. It reflects the continuity of life, as well as cultural and societal evolution through the passage of time.

More Information

The concept of "generation" is used in various contexts, from biology to sociology. In biology, it refers to the offspring of a particular set of parents, while in sociology, it refers to a cohort of people born and living around the same time, sharing common experiences. In the context of technology and energy, "generation" often refers to the production or creation of power or new ideas.