innovation

[in-uh-vey-shuhn]

noun

1. something new or different introduced.

   numerous innovations in the high school curriculum.

2. the act of innovating; introduction of new things or methods.

innovation

/ ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən /

noun

1. something newly introduced, such as a new method or device

2. the act of innovating

Other Word Forms

• innovational adjective
• innovationist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of innovation¹

First recorded in 1540–50; from Late Latin innovātiōn- (stem of innovātiō ); innovate, -ion

Example Sentences

One of MAGA’s toxic innovations is the way it has weaponized narcissism for propaganda purposes.

From Salon

Its authority to set its own standards has driven innovation, created jobs and put more zero-emission vehicles on the road than in any other state.

From Los Angeles Times

In terms of innovation or even surprise, neither came close to their original material but fans did not care.

From Los Angeles Times

Amendments were increasingly tied to technological innovations and quirky moral crusades, such as Prohibition.

From Los Angeles Times

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said the two nations were "building a golden age of nuclear" that would put them at the "forefront of global innovation".

From BBC

Related Words

• modernization 

When To Use

What does innovation mean?

Innovation can refer to something new, such as an invention, or the practice of developing and introducing new things.An innovation is often a new product, but it can also be a new way of doing something or even a new way of thinking. Innovation is most commonly associated with business and technology, but it happens in any field where people introduce change, including the arts, medicine, politics, cooking, language—even philosophy and religion.Example: The internet changed society and is often considered the ultimate example of innovation, but it was built on the backs of many smaller, previous innovations.