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 ); see origin at 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

The company recently called 2026 a “rebuilding year” and launched a turnaround effort known as “Project Fresh,” aimed at improving value perception, simplifying promotions, remodeling restaurants, upgrading operations, and introducing more menu innovation.

From Barron's • May 20, 2026

The plan has been hailed as "a strong vote of confidence in the UK as a science and technology leader" by Roland Sinker, chair of innovation and growth at the University of Cambridge.

From BBC • May 19, 2026

“Gamifying spending is just one more place where fintech innovation is adding risk rather than helping people towards financial health.”

From MarketWatch • May 19, 2026

By combining archaeological, anthropological, genetic, and isotope evidence, the researchers describe Late Bronze Age Europe as a dynamic and interconnected world where communities blended innovation with long standing traditions.

From Science Daily • May 19, 2026

For thousands of years Mesoamerica was a wellspring of cultural innovation and growth.

From "1491" by Charles C. Mann

Related Words

• modernization