/ English Dictionary |
FORMATIVE
Pronunciation (US): | (GB): |
I. (noun)
Sense 1
Meaning:
Minimal language unit that has a syntactic (or morphological) function
Classified under:
Nouns denoting communicative processes and contents
Hypernyms ("formative" is a kind of...):
language unit; linguistic unit (one of the natural units into which linguistic messages can be analyzed)
II. (adjective)
Sense 1
Meaning:
Forming or capable of forming or molding or fashioning
Example:
the plastic forces of nature
Synonyms:
Classified under:
Similar:
constructive (constructing or tending to construct or improve or promote development)
Derivation:
form (establish or impress firmly in the mind)
Sense 2
Meaning:
Capable of forming new cells and tissues
Example:
a formative zone in developing bone
Classified under:
Similar:
constructive (constructing or tending to construct or improve or promote development)
Domain category:
biological science; biology (the science that studies living organisms)