creativity

American  

[kree-ey-tiv-i-tee, kree-uh-] / ˌkri eɪˈtɪv ɪ ti, ˌkri ə- /

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.

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Other Word Forms

• anticreativity noun
• noncreativity noun
• uncreativity noun

Etymology

Origin of creativity

First recorded in 1870–75; creative + -ity

Example Sentences

Perversely, it’s times like these, when subversion and subtlety are required, that creativity flourishes.

From Salon

Participants were asked how strongly they identified with 25 positive traits, including creativity, humor, spontaneity and hyperfocus.

From Science Daily

Learn to laugh at yourself; it can signal “general intelligence and verbal creativity.”

From Los Angeles Times

When an advertising firm in Beijing rolled out generative AI tools last year, managers expected instant creativity boosts and faster turnaround times on projects.

From Barron's

Supporters say looser schedules centred around practical projects and outdoor activities help nourish creativity that is squashed by the national curriculum.

From Barron's