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.

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innovation British  

/ ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən /

noun

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

2. the act of innovating

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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

Explanation

An innovation is the introduction of something new. If you run a magazine about new technology, then you're constantly looking out for the next innovation. Innovation comes from Latin innovare for renew, whose root is novus or new. It can be used for either the act of introducing something new, as in a company that rewards creativity and innovation, or something that is newly introduced, like an innovation in microchip design. It was once used politically in the sense of revolution, but now you're most likely to hear it in relation to technology, or new ways of doing something.

Example Sentences

Not since snowmaking was invented in the 1950s has there been an innovation that could affect how ski resorts get the powder they need to thrive.

From Slate • Apr. 11, 2026

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 analysts favor companies with a “demonstrated innovation edge” that have driven product growth without relying heavily on price increases.

From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026

Later on Friday, Nike said its chief innovation officer, Tony Bignell, was departing the company “to pursue his creative and philanthropic passions.”

From MarketWatch • Apr. 10, 2026

Before Swift’s investment in this groundbreaking innovation, there was no way to keep meat fresh long enough to transport it long distances.

From "A Few Red Drops: The Chicago Race Riot of 1919" by Claire Hartfield

Related Words

• modernization