Whatever gives shape to something else may be called formative: for example, the Grand Canyon is a product of the formative power of water, and the automobile was a huge formative influence on the …

Aug 1, 2025 · The word "formative" is used to describe something that has a significant influence on the development or formation of something else. It can be used to describe a period of time, an …

FORMATIVE definition: giving form or shape; forming; shaping; fashioning; molding. See examples of formative used in a sentence.

1. giving form or shape; forming; shaping. 2. pertaining to formation or development: a child's formative years. 3. a. capable of developing new cells or tissue by cell division and differentiation: formative …

Instead of or as well as an end-of-year exam, there is the option of giving students "formative" tests throughout the year, to let teachers know how students are doing so they can help those who need it.

Playing a significant role in shaping or influencing the development or formation of someone or something. See example sentences, synonyms, and etymology for the adjective formative.

WordReference Random House Learner's Dictionary of American English © 2024 form•a•tive /ˈfɔrmətɪv/ adj. [before a noun] giving form or shape: a formative process in manufacturing. relating to formation, …

Definition of formative adjective in Oxford Advanced American Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

A formative period of time or experience is one that has an important and lasting influence on a person's character and attitudes. She was born in Barbados but spent her formative years in east London.

FORMATIVE meaning: 1 : used to describe the time when someone or something is growing or being formed; 2 : helping to develop something