improv

adjective

im·​prov ˈim-ˌpräv How to pronounce improv (audio)
Synonyms of improvnext
: of, relating to, or being improvisation and especially an improvised comedy routine
improv noun

Examples of improv in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The class is led by improv comedian and educator Amanda Lee Williams, who uses improvisational theater techniques to help future caregivers communicate more effectively with people living with dementia. Brian Unger, CBS News, 5 Mar. 2026 Former Cincinnati Reds star Joey Votto took improv classes in his hometown of Toronto to improve his communication with teammates. Rustin Dodd, New York Times, 5 Mar. 2026 This posthumous album of free improv pairs the late pedal steel virtuoso with a metal-adjacent guitar-and-drums duo, to bracing, gravity-defying effect. H.d. Angel, Pitchfork, 4 Mar. 2026 Highlights include dance class, exhibits, live music and improv performances. Abby Hamblin, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for improv

Word History

Etymology

short for improvisation

First Known Use

1978, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of improv was in 1978

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Cite this Entry

“Improv.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/improv. Accessed 7 Mar. 2026.

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