originator

noun

orig·​i·​na·​tor ə-ˈri-jə-ˌnā-tər How to pronounce originator (audio)
plural originators
: someone or something that originates or gives rise to something
the originator of the idea/theory
a technique named after its originator
Persia was the originator of melons, cucumbers, and pears.Carol Bly

Examples of originator in a Sentence

Thomas Edison was the originator of the light bulb Copernicus is sometimes hailed as the originator of modern astronomy, for he overturned the notion of an earth-centered universe
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
With her skills, Biles is the originator of the most difficult skills on three events: vault, beam, and floor. Caroline Price, Forbes.com, 5 May 2025 The modern trench coat has nearly identical features to its originator, including chest flaps, storm flaps, ventilation, a removable belt, raglan sleeves, and wide lapels. Anna Popp, Travel + Leisure, 2 May 2025 The originators of memecoins can make fees when their coins are bought and sold. Mackenzie Sigalos,kevin Collier, CNBC, 25 Apr. 2025 Created in 2010 following the 2008 financial crisis, the CFPB is the sole federal agency with power to enforce consumer financial laws at nonbank institutions such as mortgage originators and payment services. Douglas Gillison, USA Today, 18 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for originator

Word History

First Known Use

1785, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of originator was in 1785

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Cite this Entry

“Originator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/originator. Accessed 21 May. 2025.

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