Generic

/dʒəˈnɛrɪk/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A product or concept that is typical or common to a group.

The problem was so generic that it could be applied to many industries.

adjective

Relating to or characteristic of a whole group or class; not specific.

The generic brand of cereal tasted just as good as the name brand.

Not specific to a particular instance; general.

She gave a generic answer that could apply to many situations.

In pharmacology, referring to a drug that is not marketed under a brand name but instead under its chemical name.

The doctor prescribed a generic version of the medication to save on costs.

From Latin 'genericus', from 'genus', meaning 'kind, type, or class'.

generic brand

A product made by a company that is not known as a name brand.

generic drugs

Medications that are equivalent to brand-name drugs but sold under their chemical name.

genus

A rank in the biological classification (taxonomy) that is one above species.

genre

A category of artistic composition, as in music or literature.

Used to describe something that lacks originality or excitement.

That movie was so generic, I forgot all about it.

Referring to a bland or common approach.

His plan was just too generic, it didn't have any flair.