originality

noun

orig·​i·​nal·​i·​ty ə-ˌri-jə-ˈna-lə-tē 

1

: the quality or state of being original

2

: freshness of aspect, design, or style

3

: the power of independent thought or constructive imagination

Synonyms of originality

• novelty
• freshness
• newness

Examples of originality in a Sentence

Critics have praised the movie's startling originality.

I was amazed by the originality of her ideas.

Recent Examples on the Web

Beyond dyeing, Bossa continue to advance its Circular Dye concept, not only as a dye innovation but also to create differentiated melange and tonal effects at the yarn level, adding originality and visual richness to the collection. —Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 10 Apr. 2026

Each entry will be assessed for impact, civic vision, unification, originality, and craftsmanship. —USA Today, 6 Apr. 2026

Martens plans to scream, if not louder, than with more originality. —Rachel Tashjian, CNN Money, 1 Apr. 2026

While some viewers appreciated the tribute, others felt the execution lacked originality. —Claire Dodds, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1742, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for originality

• bisexuality
• collegiality
• conditionality
• congeniality
• conventionality
• conviviality
• dimensionality
• directionality
• emotionality
• essentiality
• eventuality
• grammaticality

Kids Definition

originality

noun

orig·​i·​nal·​i·​ty ə-ˌrij-ə-ˈnal-ət-ē 

1

: the quality or state of being original : freshness

the originality of an idea

2

: the power or ability to think, act, or do something in new ways : creativity

an artist of great originality

Legal Definition

originality

noun

orig·​i·​nal·​i·​ty

: the quality or fact of being the product of individual creation that warrants copyright protection for a particular work regardless of novelty