innovative

adjective

in·​no·​va·​tive ˈi-nə-ˌvā-tiv 

: characterized by, tending to, or introducing innovations

innovatively adverb

innovativeness noun

Synonyms of innovative

• inventive
• creative
• innovational
• imaginative
• talented

Examples of innovative in a Sentence

an innovative approach to the problem

a creative and innovative young designer

Recent Examples on the Web

Skubal, 29, underwent an innovative surgery May 6 to remove a loose body from his left elbow. — Jayson Stark, New York Times, 1 Aug. 2026

In total, Chinese companies occupy six of the 10 spots for the most innovative humanoid robotics startups in the world, according to the report. — Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 1 Aug. 2026

The challenge facing higher education is not whether universities are innovative. — David Rosowsky, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026

Even in these early stages, the project is generating praise, winning the Silver at this year's World Habitat Awards for innovative and sustainable housing projects. — Kamala Thiagarajan, NPR, 1 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1806, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for innovative

• allocative
• appellative
• applicative
• commutative
• connotative
• copulative
• degradative
• dissipative
• educative
• exudative
• facultative
• imitative