originality

noun

orig·​i·​nal·​i·​ty ə-ˌri-jə-ˈna-lə-tē How to pronounce originality (audio)
1
: the quality or state of being original
2
: freshness of aspect, design, or style
3
: the power of independent thought or constructive imagination

Examples of originality in a Sentence

Critics have praised the movie's startling originality. I was amazed by the originality of her ideas.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Its lack of originality and emotional depth may have been more forgivable had the film been legit funny. Gary Goldstein, Los Angeles Times, 6 June 2025 The vast majority, if not all, of these entries lacked the originality, the spark, and the incredible production values of the original. Dalton Ross, EW.com, 31 May 2025 On the surface, this is a bashfully dystopian science fiction yarn about friendship and loss, but boiling right under that is a fiercely intellectual narrative that tackles big questions about art, originality, inspiration, motherhood and impermanence. Gabino Iglesias, New York Times, 30 May 2025 Accelerated Career Growth Standing out through originality and problem-solving positions you as a driver of change. Glenn Llopis, Forbes.com, 24 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for originality

Word History

First Known Use

1742, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of originality was in 1742

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Cite this Entry

“Originality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/originality. Accessed 12 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

originality

noun
orig·​i·​nal·​i·​ty ə-ˌrij-ə-ˈnal-ət-ē How to pronounce originality (audio)
1
: the quality or state of being original : freshness
the originality of an idea
2
: the power or ability to think, act, or do something in new ways : creativity
an artist of great originality

Legal Definition

originality

noun
orig·​i·​nal·​i·​ty
: the quality or fact of being the product of individual creation that warrants copyright protection for a particular work regardless of novelty

More from Merriam-Webster on originality

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