improv

adjective

im·​prov ˈim-ˌpräv How to pronounce improv (audio)
: of, relating to, or being improvisation and especially an improvised comedy routine
improv noun

Examples of improv in a Sentence

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.
But Universal’s performers last weekend showed their improv skills by humoring fans while keeping the story moving. Robert Niles, Oc Register, 29 Apr. 2025 But thanks to some great improv banter at the end between Jack Black’s Steve, the master of Minecraft, and House’s never-say-die Malgosha, the villain goes out with a better finish than was written on the page. Bill Desowitz, IndieWire, 26 Apr. 2025 Directed by Tom Kingsley, the film will see Bryce Dallas Howard as Kat, an improv comedy teacher beginning to question if she’s missed her shot at success. Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 22 Apr. 2025 Relax in the spa at Old Edwards Inn and Spa or experience a live performance of local theater, music, or improv. Jennifer Prince, Southern Living, 20 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for improv

Word History

Etymology

short for improvisation

First Known Use

1978, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of improv was in 1978

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Cite this Entry

“Improv.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/improv. Accessed 9 May. 2025.

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