brainstorming

noun

brain·​storm·​ing ˈbrān-ˌstȯr-miŋ How to pronounce brainstorming (audio)
plural brainstormings
: a group problem-solving technique that involves the spontaneous contribution of ideas from all members of the group
conducted several brainstorming sessions
also : the mulling over of ideas by one or more individuals in an attempt to devise or find a solution to a problem
… he's already done some brainstorming about new marketing strategies. George Lazarus

Examples of brainstorming in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Define which activities — such as team meetings, brainstorming sessions, or mentoring — benefit most from in-person interaction. Peter Cappelli, Big Think, 30 Sep. 2025 The Golden State Killer has a similar chilling effect on brainstorming. Daniel D'addario, Variety, 30 Sep. 2025 Enter my mAId of honor, creative brainstorming partner, fashion historian, meteorologist, travel agent and personal assistant: ChatGPT. Sarah Dethomasis, Vogue, 17 Sep. 2025 That involved two years of brainstorming and coming up with multiple concepts and layouts to create a harmonious vessel designed to travel the world. Tristan Rutherford, Robb Report, 12 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for brainstorming

Word History

First Known Use

1907, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of brainstorming was in 1907

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Cite this Entry

“Brainstorming.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/brainstorming. Accessed 9 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

brainstorming

noun
brain·​storm·​ing -stȯrm-iŋ How to pronounce brainstorming (audio)
: a technique used to solve problems and encourage creativity in which members of a group share their ideas about a subject
brainstorm verb

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