[+ object]
1 : to produce (something) or cause (something) to be produced
windmills used to generate electricity
generate heat
This business should generate a lot of revenue.
2 : to be the cause of or reason for (something, such as interest or excitement)
His theories have generated a great deal of interest among other scientists.
Her comments have generated a good deal of excitement/controversy.
They have been unable to generate much support for their proposals.