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

Judging is strict, focusing on creativity, originality, use of color, correctness and presentation. —Tejal Rao, New York Times, 25 Nov. 2024

They're judged on design, flavor and originality, and must focus on teamwork, too, accounting for differences in baking styles, competition experience and their own backgrounds to make something truly memorable (think Luna Lovegood's Converse sneakers made out of Rice Krispies). —Nicole Fallert, USA TODAY, 14 Nov. 2024

Submissions will evaluate each gingerbread entry based on overall appearance, originality, creativity, neatness, and edibility, according to a news release announcing the competition. —Kirby Adams, The Courier-Journal, 8 Nov. 2024

Snoop Dogg wants to see more originality in rap these days. —Michael Saponara, Billboard, 21 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1742, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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