From WordNet (r) 2.0 (August 2003) [wn]:
generator
n 1: an apparatus that produces a vapor or gas
2: engine that converts mechanical energy into electrical
energy by electromagnetic induction
3: someone who originates or causes or initiates something; "he
was the generator of several complaints" [syn: source,
author]
4: an electronic device for producing a signal voltage
From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 [gcide]:
Generator \Gen"er*a`tor\, n. [L.]
1. One who, or that which, generates, begets, causes, or
produces.
[1913 Webster]
2. An apparatus in which vapor or gas is formed from a liquid
or solid by means of heat or chemical process, as a steam
boiler, gas retort, or vessel for generating carbonic acid
gas, etc.
[1913 Webster]
3. (Mus.) The principal sound or sounds by which others are
produced; the fundamental note or root of the common
chord; -- called also generating tone.
[1913 Webster]
4. (Elec.) Any machine that transforms mechanical into
electrical energy; a dynamo.
[Webster 1913 Suppl.]
5. (Math.) a mathematical entity which, when subjected to an
operation, yields another mathematical entity; also, a
generatrix.
[PJC]