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

Some are content to produce quality products "but never exercise creativity", he said.

From Barron's

Spurs have badly lacked for creativity from open play throughout Frank's first season but have compensated thanks to their strength from set pieces.

From Barron's

San Francisco’s openness, creativity and diversity, and its dogged insistence on trying to build a society that takes care of more than just the winners, are its very strengths.

From Salon

Both Lau and Gao, while bracing for a tumultuous year, remind us that 1966 was also a breakthrough year for music and creativity.

From Los Angeles Times

Sev had always impressed me with his creativity and relentless work ethic.

From Los Angeles Times