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

Such originality and potential have rarely been explored. —Marta Balaga, Variety, 9 Apr. 2025

All pieces go through originality and AI checks by default. —Rowan Briggs, Mercury News, 24 Mar. 2025

Content Analysis – Examining the depth, originality, and reach of a company’s thought leadership, comparing it against direct and indirect competitors. —Rhea Wessel, Forbes, 24 Mar. 2025

The event paid tribute to LA’s deep impact on fashion and streetwear, reinforcing Adidas’ commitment to originality. —Mecca Pryor, Essence, 24 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