originality

noun

orig·i·nal·i·ty ə-ˌri-jə-ˈna-lə-tē

Synonyms of originality

: the quality or state of being original

: freshness of aspect, design, or style

: the power of independent thought or constructive imagination

Examples of originality in a Sentence

Critics have praised the movie's startling originality. I was amazed by the originality of her ideas.

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Nikou added that in the last 15-20 years, cinema has suffered from a lack of originality. — Leo Barraclough, Variety, 11 July 2026 Although the movie debuts today it has already been panned by critics for its lack of originality. — Caroline Reid, Forbes.com, 10 July 2026 Trust your originality, then let playful practice turn the spark into something durable. — Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 5 July 2026 And yet, generations of Americans have come here not despite its eccentricities—and downright aversion to good taste—but because of them, which serves as a reminder that originality, even at its most excessive, never really goes out of style. — Air Mail, 4 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for originality

Word History

First Known Use

1742, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler

The first known use of originality was in 1742

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Browse Nearby Words

originalism

originality

originally

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Originality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/originality. Accessed 14 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

originality

noun

orig·i·nal·i·ty ə-ˌrij-ə-ˈnal-ət-ē

: the quality or state of being original : freshness

the originality of an idea

: the power or ability to think, act, or do something in new ways : creativity

an artist of great originality

Legal Definition

originality

noun

orig·i·nal·i·ty

: the quality or fact of being the product of individual creation that warrants copyright protection for a particular work regardless of novelty

originality

noun

Synonyms of originality

Examples of originality in a Sentence

Word History

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Kids Definition

Legal Definition

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originality

noun

Synonyms of originality

Examples of originality in a Sentence

Word History

Rhymes for originality

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Kids Definition

Legal Definition

More from Merriam-Webster on originality

More from Merriam-Webster

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Popular in Grammar & Usage

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