generator

Everyday

1. A generator is a machine that makes electricity. tree →
2. A generator is anything that produces something («an idea generator», «a random number generator»). tree →

In the lessons

In science lessons, power stations use huge generators turned by steam, wind or water; wind turbines contain generators. In everyday life, a portable generator gives power during a blackout or at camp. In maths and computing, a random number generator picks numbers by chance. Phrases: «power generator», «backup generator», «random number generator».

Examples

• The hospital has a generator in case the power goes off. tree →
• Wind turbines turn generators to make electricity. tree →
• We used a generator to power the lights at the fete. tree →
• A dynamo on a bike is a small generator. tree →
• Never run a generator indoors; its fumes are deadly. tree →
• The random number generator picked 17. tree →

Note

From the verb «generate» (to produce). Safety: generators give off carbon monoxide; they must only be run outside. In maths, a random number generator gives every allowed number an equal chance.