innovation

[in-uh-vey-shuhn]

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

/ ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən /

noun

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

2. the act of innovating

Other Word Forms

• innovational adjective
• innovationist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of innovation¹

First recorded in 1540–50; from Late Latin innovātiōn- (stem of innovātiō ); innovate, -ion

Example Sentences

South Africa men's coach Rassie Erasmus led the way when it came to innovation to maintain dominance up front for an entire 80 minutes.

From BBC

The DIS also aims to respond to evolving global threats, such as the war in Ukraine, underscoring the need for rapid innovation and industrial capacity to support national security.

From BBC

Drones and unmanned systems on the battlefield are a major innovation in this war, for instance.

From BBC

“For over a decade, NeueHouse has served as a center of creativity, community, design and innovation where trailblazers have convened to push boundaries and discover new ideas,” said the board in a statement.

From Los Angeles Times

"Growth that may seem impossible today can be unlocked with new ideas, better technology and greater innovation," Tesla chair Robyn Denholm said.

From BBC

Related Words

• modernization 

When To Use

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.