Definition
An engine-driven electrical machine that produces direct current by mechanically rotating armature windings through a magnetic field, with a commutator and brushes converting the internally generated alternating current into a one-direction output suitable for charging the aircraft battery and powering DC electrical systems.
Plain English
A device, turned by the engine, that makes steady electrical power flowing in one direction. That power runs the aircraft's electrical equipment and keeps the battery charged.
Context Anchor
Seen in aircraft electrical system descriptions, cockpit electrical checks, and troubleshooting for charging or low-voltage problems.
Derivation
Generator comes from the Latin generare, meaning 'to produce' or 'bring forth.' A DC generator produces direct current — electricity that flows steadily in one direction, as opposed to alternating current, which reverses direction many times per second.
Why Pilots Care
Ensures a stable source of direct current power for aircraft batteries, instruments, and radios without needing external rectification in basic systems.
Analogy
A DC generator is like a small power plant driven by the engine. As long as it is being turned and working correctly, it can keep making electrical power for the airplane.
Intuition Check
Do not think of a DC generator as a battery. A battery stores electrical power; a DC generator makes electrical power when it is being turned.
Example Sentence 1
The DC generator on the older trainer kept the battery topped up and powered the radios during flight.
Example Sentence 2
If the DC generator fails in flight, the aircraft relies on battery power until landing.