innovation

noun

in·​no·​va·​tion ˌi-nə-ˈvā-shən 

1

: a new idea, method, or device : novelty

2

: the introduction of something new

innovational

ˌi-nə-ˈvā-sh(ə-)nəl 

adjective

Did you know?

What is the difference between innovation and invention?

The words innovation and invention overlap semantically but are really quite distinct.

Invention can refer to a type of musical composition, a falsehood, a discovery, or any product of the imagination. The sense of invention most likely to be confused with innovation is “a device, contrivance, or process originated after study and experiment,” usually something which has not previously been in existence.

Innovation, for its part, can refer to something new or to a change made to an existing product, idea, or field. One might say that the first telephone was an invention, the first cellular telephone either an invention or an innovation, and the first smartphone an innovation.

Synonyms

• brainchild
• coinage
• concoction
• contrivance
• creation
• invention
• wrinkle

Examples of innovation in a Sentence

She is responsible for many innovations in her field.

the latest innovation in computer technology

Through technology and innovation, they found ways to get better results with less work.

the rapid pace of technological innovation

Recent Examples on the Web

But the brand has also evolved in fascinating ways that prove their commitment to innovation. —Jessica Ourisman, Forbes, 4 Oct. 2024

Textiles PrimaLoft Specialist in advanced material technology PrimaLoft announced two new hires: Chris Gallo as senior vice president of product strategy, and Andrea Paulson as senior vice president of innovation and technology. —Alexandra Harrell, Sourcing Journal, 4 Oct. 2024

And instead of a threat, generative AI can be an artist’s tool for innovation and collaboration in a web3 blockchain context. —David Pakman, Fortune, 4 Oct. 2024

Chun will work to continue to identify and execute meaningful cross-platform partnerships that drive value for subscribers and innovation across the industry. —Sportico Staff, Sportico.com, 4 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Kids Definition

innovation

noun

in·​no·​va·​tion ˌin-ə-ˈvā-shən 

1

: the introduction of something new

2

: a new idea, method, or device