originality

noun

orig·​i·​nal·​i·​ty ə-ˌri-jə-ˈna-lə-tē How to pronounce originality (audio)
Synonyms of originalitynext
1
: the quality or state of being original
2
: freshness of aspect, design, or style
3
: the power of independent thought or constructive imagination

Synonyms of originality

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Examples of originality in a Sentence

Critics have praised the movie's startling originality. I was amazed by the originality of her ideas.
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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.
The movie is of no aesthetic originality or distinction; it’s filmed, transparently, in scenes of straightforward dramatic realism, neither maintaining an individual character’s point of view nor evoking subjectivity. — Richard Brody, New Yorker, 15 Oct. 2026 For me, the name Peck not only encompassed the conflicts in the book (between twin brothers, capitalism and social good, originality and conformity) but also captured the constant ephemeral battle of proving how and why art matters. — Literary Hub, 13 Oct. 2026 Leaving space for imagination The originality of her contribution can also arise from a refusal to do what many tend to expect from translations of ancient works in particular. — Amy Cannon, The Conversation, 9 Oct. 2026 As content becomes easier to make, originality will become more valuable, not less. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 5 Oct. 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

Rhymes for originality

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Browse Nearby Words

originalism
originality
originally
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Cite this Entry

“Originality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/originality. Accessed 19 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

originality

noun
orig·​i·​nal·​i·​ty ə-ˌrij-ə-ˈnal-ət-ē How to pronounce originality (audio)
1
: the quality or state of being original : freshness
the originality of an idea
2
: 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
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