# generational

/ˌdʒɛnɝˈeɪʃənəɫ/ (US) · /dʒˌɛnəɹˈeɪʃənəl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/generational
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

relating to the different age groups in a family or society. It describes things that happen between people of different ages or affect a whole group born around the same time.

For teachers: relating to or characteristic of all the people born and living at about the same time. Often used to describe shifts in behavior, wealth, or values between age cohorts.

## Examples

- There is a clear generational gap in how people use social media.
- The family business has survived for decades thanks to successful generational shifts in leadership.
- Sociologists often study generational trauma to understand how the experiences of ancestors continue to influence the mental health and social outcomes of their descendants today.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.