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Synonyms

innovation

American  
[in-uh-vey-shuhn] / ˌɪn əˈveɪ ʃən /

noun

  1. something new or different introduced.

    numerous innovations in the high school curriculum.

  2. the act of innovating; introduction of new things or methods.


innovation British  
/ ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən /

noun

  1. something newly introduced, such as a new method or device

  2. the act of innovating

"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

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.

“That’s a key technology for semiconductor innovation going forward, and these companies have the core enabling materials here,” he said.

From MarketWatch

Muñoz has sought to shake up Hyundai’s culture, fearing its hierarchies could shield top executives from the truth or throttle innovation.

From The Wall Street Journal

“This conviction reinforces the FBI’s steadfast commitment to protecting American innovation and national security,” FBI Special Agent in Charge Sanjay Virmani said in a statement.

From Los Angeles Times

EU leaders will hold talks on competitiveness next month in Belgium as the bloc seeks to revive its economy and foster innovation.

From Barron's

She said that the industry needs to work with lawmakers “to ensure that bad actors are held accountable and states can continue to foster innovation and access through critical private investment.”

From The Wall Street Journal