reproductive
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
adj.relating to the process of producing babies or young animals.
adj.relating to the biological process of procreation or the organs involved in producing offspring.
Simple“The doctor explained how the human reproductive system works during the biology lesson.”
In context“The research paper examines the impact of environmental pollutants on the reproductive health of local fish populations.”
UsageOften used as an attributive adjective before nouns like 'system', 'organs', or 'health'.
Synonymsprocreativegenital - 02 C1 Advanced
adj.able to produce offspring or new versions of something.
adj.capable of reproduction or tending to reproduce.
Simple“The plant reaches its reproductive stage after two years of growth.”
In context“The study tracked the reproductive success of various migratory birds across different nesting habitats.”
- 03 C2 Proficiency
n.a member of a group of insects, like ants or bees, that can have babies.
n.an individual organism, particularly within a social insect colony, that is capable of reproduction.
Simple“In a termite colony, the reproductives are the only ones with wings.”
In context“The colony produces winged reproductives that leave the nest to establish new populations elsewhere during the swarming season.”
Usage reproductive organ · reproductive success
“Yet sometimes that felt like pretending your reproductive system didn’t really exist, or that you should simply push through the more difficult, painful aspects.”
“Hansen has started a campaign through her health awareness organisation HEDUCA for a wellbeing hub in Medway, specifically for women's and girls' reproductive conditions.”
From re- + productive.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.