Reproductive
/ˌriːprəˈdʌktɪv/
Definitions
Relating to the biological process by which new organisms are produced.
/ˌriːprəˈdʌktɪv/
Relating to or involved in the process of reproduction.
The reproductive system in mammals is complex.
💡 Simply: Imagine a plant making more plants, or an animal having babies. Reproductive is about the way things make copies of themselves!
👶 For kids: When something can make a baby or a copy of itself, that's reproductive!
More Examples
A significant decline in the reproductive rate of salmon was observed.
Certain chemicals can have a detrimental impact on reproductive health.
How It's Used
"The reproductive organs are essential for the continuation of the species."
"Selective breeding can improve the reproductive success of livestock."
From Late Latin *reproductivus*, from *reproducere* ('to reproduce'), from *re-* ('again') + *producere* ('to bring forth').
The term has been used since the 17th century, initially focusing on the concept of biological reproduction.
Memory tip
Think 're-producing' – making more. Focus on the ability to generate offspring.
Word Origin
"to produce again"