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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

"When a human has an agent of their own, a company has a super employee," he said of brainstorming and delegating tasks to Trinity AI agents conversationally while commuting.

From Barron's • Mar. 18, 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

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

From BBC • Feb. 11, 2026

At debate club the following Monday when we’re going to be brainstorming ideas that could be our “prepared topic” for the tournament, I take my seat and get out my notebook like I always do.

From "The Benefits of Being an Octopus" by Ann Braden