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

Meanwhile, the Telford loafer, is distinguished by its refined apron stitching, which brings a subtle sense of originality to the upper. —Stephen Garner, Footwear News, 20 June 2026

But what this charmer of a film has that keeps us engaged, if not originality, is the couple at the center of it all. —Pete Hammond, Deadline, 18 June 2026

From getting sucked through the chair to evoking its visual originality, a lot went into those moments. —Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 17 June 2026

The jury of 19 virtual judges assessed entries on quality of content, format, design, creativity and originality and were impressed by the innovative work submitted by the Anaheim Public Library. —Sharon Hlapcich, Oc Register, 11 June 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