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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.


brainstorming British  
/ ˈbreɪnˌstɔːmɪŋ /

noun

  1. intensive discussion to solve problems or generate ideas

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of brainstorming

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

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Finally, there are things that don’t require AI at all, like challenging your assumptions or brainstorming with colleagues.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 11, 2026

Solomon said NBC is still brainstorming about how Snoop’s role will evolve for the 2028 Games.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 21, 2026

His venture into cycling came at a friend's suggestion during a brainstorming session to tap into the US market.

From Barron's • Feb. 16, 2026

"No names yet but we are brainstorming," he said.

From BBC • Feb. 11, 2026

An hour later, Oliver had done zero brainstorming.

From "The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street" by Karina Yan Glaser

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