innovate

verb

in·​no·​vate ˈi-nə-ˌvāt 

innovated; innovating

intransitive verb

: to make changes : do something in a new way

transitive verb

1

: to introduce as or as if new

2

archaic : to effect a change in

The dictates of my father were … not to be altered, innovated, or even discussed …

—Sir Walter Scott

innovator

ˈi-nə-ˌvā-tər 

noun

innovatory

ˈi-nə-və-ˌtȯr-ē 

ˈi-nə-ˌvā-tə-rē

adjective

Synonyms

• begin
• constitute
• establish
• found
• inaugurate
• initiate
• institute
• introduce
• launch
• pioneer
• plant
• set up
• start

Examples of innovate in a Sentence

The company plans to continue innovating and experimenting.

The company innovated a new operating system.

Recent Examples on the Web

Leaders must champion co-intelligence by fostering a culture where teams are encouraged to use AI to innovate and make decisions that drive value. —Aj Thomas, Forbes, 15 Oct. 2024

The concept is a test of Bloomingdale’s ability to innovate and a template for expansion. —David Moin, WWD, 14 Oct. 2024

The company has been in the liquid cooling business for well over a decade, giving it the time to refine and innovate its products. —Paulina Likos, CNBC, 12 Oct. 2024

After leaving the company, Fender continued to innovate. —Bailey Kanthatham, Orange County Register, 9 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin innovatus, past participle of innovare, from in- + novus new — more at new

First Known Use

1548, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Kids Definition

innovate

verb

in·​no·​vate ˈin-ə-ˌvāt 

innovated; innovating

: to introduce something new

innovate a new website

: do something in a new way

innovative

-ˌvāt-iv

adjective

innovator

-ˌvāt-ər 

noun