Langimage
English

generic

|ge/ner/ic|

B2

/dʒəˈnɛrɪk/

non-specific

Etymology
Etymology Information

'generic' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'genus,' where 'genus' meant 'kind' or 'type.'

Historical Evolution

'genus' transformed into the French word 'générique,' and eventually became the modern English word 'generic' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'kind or type,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'not specific or characteristic of a class.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a consumer product having no brand name or registered trademark.

Many people buy generics to save money on medication.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 1

characteristic of or relating to a class or group of things; not specific.

The term 'fruit' is generic and can refer to apples, oranges, and bananas.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41