inventive

adjective

in·​ven·​tive in-ˈven-tiv 

1

: adept or prolific at producing inventions : creative

an inventive mind

2

: characterized by invention

an inventive method

inventively adverb

inventiveness noun

Synonyms

• innovative
• imaginative
• creative
• clever

Examples of inventive in a Sentence

They have given their new company an inventive name.

inventive ways to use leftovers

Recent Examples on the Web

There’s humor, insight, and a ton of catchy and inventive premises here. —James Folta, Literary Hub, 10 Sep. 2025

Since his departure in 2015, Artesian has evolved under new leadership while keeping its reputation for inventive themes and theatrical presentation. —Lauren Mowery, Forbes.com, 10 Sep. 2025

On Lady Jane’s late summer menu, honey takes center stage in two inventive ways. —Brittany Anas, Denver Post, 10 Sep. 2025

Renaud Tixier Monday Organica Any meeting with Dominique Renaud—the man behind the inventive lab, Renaud & Papi—is a treat. —Thor Svaboe, Robb Report, 9 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for inventive

• agentive
• attentive
• incentive
• preventive
• retentive
• disincentive
• inattentive

Kids Definition

inventive

adjective

in·​ven·​tive in-ˈvent-iv 

: gifted with the skill and imagination to invent

inventively adverb

inventiveness noun