brainstorming

American  

[breyn-stawr-ming] / ˈbreɪnˌstɔr mɪŋ /

noun

1. a technique for generating ideas and solving specific problems with uncensored and nonlinear thinking, usually performed through group participation in a spontaneous discussion where all ideas are noted without assigning them value, and no proposal is selected or discarded until after the conclusion of the creative exercise.

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brainstorming British  

/ ˈbreɪnˌstɔːmɪŋ /

noun

1. intensive discussion to solve problems or generate ideas

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Etymology

Origin of brainstorming

First recorded in 1955–60; brainstorm + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

We thought it would be productive to ask the workers themselves—in this case Wall Street Journal readers—for a little brainstorming to see what their employers could be doing better.

From The Wall Street Journal

That was such a thrill to write to finally give Steve a moment because the brainstorming almost always goes to Dustin.

From Los Angeles Times

Do you set aside time in the day to journal or do any brainstorming?

From The Wall Street Journal

While brainstorming for this year’s gift guide with the editorial team, Goth Shakira, Image magazine’s love columnist holding court in the stars, immediately replied “luxury dental care for life.”

From Los Angeles Times

Teachers use it to organize lesson plans and grade papers, and students use it to do things like research and brainstorming.

From Los Angeles Times