innovation
Americannoun
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something new or different introduced.
numerous innovations in the high school curriculum.
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the act of innovating; introduction of new things or methods.
noun
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something newly introduced, such as a new method or device
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the act of innovating
Usage
What does innovation mean? Innovation can refer to something new, such as an invention, or the practice of developing and introducing new things. An innovation is often a new product, but it can also be a new way of doing something or even a new way of thinking. Innovation is most commonly associated with business and technology, but it happens in any field where people introduce change, including the arts, medicine, politics, cooking, language—even philosophy and religion. Example: The internet changed society and is often considered the ultimate example of innovation, but it was built on the backs of many smaller, previous innovations.
Other Word Forms
- innovational adjective
- innovationist noun
Etymology
Origin of innovation
First recorded in 1540–50; from Late Latin innovātiōn- (stem of innovātiō ); innovate, -ion
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.
Bignell is the third innovation chief to exit in under three years; Andy Caine will succeed him as of Sunday.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026
The innovation focuses on a key function in electronics: converting high voltages into the lower levels required by computing hardware.
From Science Daily • Apr. 10, 2026
Supporters of the rule argue that alternative assets offer potential for increased long-term returns and broader investment diversification, positioning the change as expanding innovation and opportunity for American workers and retirees.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2026
"Success in defeating Alzheimer's hinges on interdisciplinary collaboration and holistic innovation," the authors conclude.
From Science Daily • Apr. 10, 2026
The revolutionary overhaul endowed the Mary Rose with the greatest naval military innovation of its time: hinged gunports.
From "Shipwrecked!" by Martin W. Sandler
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
