inductive

adjective

in·​duc·​tive in-ˈdək-tiv 

1

: of, relating to, or employing mathematical or logical induction

inductive reasoning

2

: of or relating to inductance or electrical induction

3

: introductory

4

: involving the action of an embryological organizer : tending to produce induction

5

: leading on : inducing

inductively adverb

Examples of inductive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Looking back on this exercise in inductive thinking, this turned out to be remarkably prescient. —Eli Amdur, Forbes, 30 Oct. 2024

Robotic cars can position themselves precisely to assure a good inductive link. —Brad Templeton, Forbes, 22 Oct. 2024

View 2 Images Two great minds in permanent-magnet-free motor design are fusing their know-how to create an even more capable inductive electric motor. —New Atlas, 15 Oct. 2024

The robotaxi would also be charged wirelessly, through inductive charging, Musk said. —Aarian Marshall, WIRED, 11 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 5

Kids Definition

inductive

adjective

in·​duc·​tive in-ˈdək-tiv 

: relating to, using, or based on induction

inductively adverb

Medical Definition

inductive

adjective

in·​duc·​tive in-ˈdək-tiv 

1

: of or relating to inductance or electrical induction

2

: involving the action of an embryological inductor : tending to produce induction

the inductive effect of chordamesoderm

inductive reactions in the embryo

inductively adverb