creativity

[kree-ey-tiv-i-tee, kree-uh-]

noun

1. the state or quality of being creative.

2. the ability to transcend traditional ideas, rules, patterns, relationships, or the like, and to create meaningful new ideas, forms, methods, interpretations, etc.; originality, progressiveness, or imagination.

   the need for creativity in modern industry; creativity in the performing arts.

3. the process by which one utilizes creative ability.

   Extensive reading stimulated his creativity.

Other Word Forms

• anticreativity noun
• noncreativity noun
• uncreativity noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of creativity¹

First recorded in 1870–75; creative + -ity

Example Sentences

Starting in the 1930s, a growing awareness that office work was more than just moving paper led to a rethinking of office designs to support interaction, creativity and employee well-being.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Alice Wong, the California disability rights activist who employed wit, creativity and at times shock to fight for justice, has died at age 51.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Fans praised her candor and creativity, agreeing that Musk could do more with his wealth.

Read more on Salon

On Wednesday, the Vatican said the invitation to the world of cinema was intended to explore "the possibilities that artistic creativity offers to the mission of the Church and the promotion of human values".

Read more on Barron's

Both teams are strong up front, but Los Angeles has a touch more balance and creativity.

Read more on Los Angeles Times