Definition
A rotating electrical machine that converts mechanical energy into direct current (DC) electrical energy through electromagnetic induction. In aircraft, it is driven by the engine and supplies electrical power to the aircraft systems and charges the battery while the engine is running.
Plain English
A device spun by the engine that produces electricity to run the airplane's electrical systems and keep the battery charged.
Context Anchor
Seen in aircraft electrical system descriptions, cockpit electrical checks, abnormal procedure checklists, and generator warning-light discussions.
Derivation
From the Latin generare, meaning 'to produce' or 'to bring forth.' The name reflects its function: it produces electrical energy from mechanical motion.
Why Pilots Care
A functioning generator keeps the battery charged and supplies power to essential avionics; its failure requires immediate attention to avoid electrical system depletion.
Analogy
A generator is like a bicycle light powered by the turning wheel: motion is turned into electricity for a useful purpose.
Intuition Check
Do not read “generator” as just anything that creates something. In this context, it means the specific aircraft device that makes electrical power from engine-driven motion.
Example Sentence 1
After engine start, the pilot checked the ammeter to confirm the generator was charging the battery.
Example Sentence 2
A low generator reading on the ammeter indicates a potential issue with the charging system.