originality

noun

orig·​i·​nal·​i·​ty ə-ˌri-jə-ˈna-lə-tē 

1

: the quality or state of being original

2

: freshness of aspect, design, or style

3

: the power of independent thought or constructive imagination

Synonyms

• freshness
• newness
• novelty

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

The Drawbacks One drawback of AI is the issue of bias and lack of originality. —Haokun Qin, Forbes, 17 Mar. 2025

Her work showcases incredible attention to detail and a strong sense of originality that sets her designs apart. —Heide Janssen, Orange County Register, 16 Mar. 2025

Comme des Garçons, Undercover and Rick Owens infused their collections with deep emotion, reminding us of the power of originality and sensitivity. —Rhonda Richford, WWD, 12 Mar. 2025

Although the first four songs are Dylan compositions, early listeners were not impressed by Dylan’s originality. —Eli Wizevich, Smithsonian Magazine, 5 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1742, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for originality

• bisexuality
• collegiality
• conditionality
• congeniality
• conventionality
• conviviality
• dimensionality
• directionality
• emotionality
• essentiality
• eventuality
• grammaticality

Kids Definition

originality

noun

orig·​i·​nal·​i·​ty ə-ˌrij-ə-ˈnal-ət-ē 

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