Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
generic-name
noun
/dʒəˈnɛrɪk neɪm/
Definition
A generic name is a non-proprietary name used to identify a class of products or substances, particularly in pharmaceuticals, applicable to all products in that category regardless of brand.
Examples
- Aspirin is the generic name for acetylsalicylic acid.
- Ibuprofen is the generic name for several brand-name pain relievers.
Meaning
In the context of pharmaceuticals, a generic name refers to the active ingredient of a medication, which is not tied to a specific brand but is the same as the branded version.
Synonyms
- nonproprietary name
- common name
- official name
