imaginative

adjective

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imag·i·na·tive | \ i-ˈmaj-nə-tiv

; -ˈma-jə-ˌnā-, -nə- \

Definition of imaginative

1a : of, relating to, or characterized by imagination

b : devoid of truth : false

2 : given to imagining : having a lively imagination

3 : of or relating to images especially : showing a command of imagery

Other Words from imaginative Synonyms & Antonyms Example Sentences Learn More About imaginative

Examples of imaginative in a Sentence

She wrote an imaginative story about life on the planet Venus. The restaurant's menu is quite imaginative.

Recent Examples on the Web The imaginative capacity that produces films such as Fiddler on the Roof and Sounder was nurtured by cultural beliefs that are at the heart of Fiddler on the Roof itself. — Armond White, National Review, 13 May 2022 The imaginative breadth of the tale offered Rimsky-Korsakov wide berth for his orchestral ambitions — and Macelaru a showcase for his keen sense of narrative. — Michael Andor Brodeur, Washington Post, 13 May 2022 The new series tells the story of the Williams family during the late 1960s, all through the point of view of imaginative 12-year-old Dean. — Joe Otterson, Variety, 13 May 2022 Heralded as one of the greatest ever songwriters, 81-year-old Bob Dylan is known for his unmistakable folk style and uniquely imaginative lyrics. — oregonlive, 12 May 2022 With a fun, clever young heroine, and Alston's imaginative world building, Amari's story is impossible to put down. — Lauren Morgan, EW.com, 12 May 2022 The goal, Alison adds, is to eventually merge this imaginative, inspirational world with our personal shopping. — Megan Decker, refinery29.com, 10 May 2022 The overwhelming mystery of life in the presence of death inspires Hong to new heights of imaginative inspiration, and reveals all the more clearly the essence of his artistry. — Richard Brody, The New Yorker, 5 May 2022 Visitors to the bar make plenty of imaginative connections. — Ellen Bhang, BostonGlobe.com, 3 May 2022 See More

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'imaginative.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

History and Etymology for imaginative

Middle English ymaginatif "employing mental images, curious, inventive," borrowed from Middle French & Medieval Latin; Middle French, "of the imagination, having a strong imagination, shrewd," borrowed from Medieval Latin imāginātīvus "of the imagination," from Latin imāginātus, past participle of imāginārī "to imagine" + -īvus -ive