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Synonyms

originality

American  
[uh-rij-uh-nal-i-tee] / əˌrɪdʒ əˈnæl ɪ ti /

noun

  1. the quality or state of being original.

    Synonyms:
    ingenuity, inventiveness, creativeness, cleverness
  2. ability to think or express oneself in an independent and individual manner; creative ability.

  3. freshness or novelty, as of an idea, method, or performance.

    Synonyms:
    creativeness, cleverness, ingenuity, inventiveness

originality British  
/ əˌrɪdʒɪˈnælɪtɪ /

noun

  1. the quality or condition of being original

  2. the ability to create or innovate

  3. something original

"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

Other Word Forms

  • unoriginality noun

Etymology

Origin of originality

From the French word originalité, dating back to 1735–45. See original, -ity

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.

The ad's originality lay in the fact it did not directly show off the product, but instead promised a new world of emancipation for consumers thanks to home computers.

From Barron's

“Kim’s Convenience” may not win points for originality, but originality isn’t really the point of an immigrant family drama meant to be instantly, one might say universally, recognizable.

From Los Angeles Times

This time, we’re seeing the actor’s answer to “The Studio,” only instead of satirizing the industry’s artistically cheapening franchise obsession, it warns of the full extinction of originality by way of ChatGPT.

From Salon

But it’s also an organic experience, teeming with originality, despite its familiar marketing as an “immersive experience.”

From Los Angeles Times

"This Lifetime Achievement Award recognises a remarkable legacy built on originality and enduring influence, that continues to connect with fans worldwide."

From BBC