Definition of ideationnext
as in creativity
the ability to form mental images of things that either are not physically present or have never been conceived or created by others caregivers are trained to watch for signs of depression and suicidal ideation—some patients are likely to put their fantasies to action

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of ideation Even as audiences still vigorously debate the film’s ending, Cretton, during an interview with Deadline, teased that the conversation regarding Spider-Man’s future might spin new webs of ideation. — Destiny Jackson, Deadline, 3 Aug. 2026 To cope, Nick seems to be turning to alcohol, while Charlie continues to struggle with self-harm ideation and an eating disorder. — David MacK, CNN Money, 17 July 2026 In fact, research shows that talking openly about suicide is an important plank of prevention that can actually decrease suicidal thoughts and ideation. — Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 6 July 2026 Manufacturers then work on product ideation, which could take four to five months for a year-long project. — Greta Cross, USA Today, 1 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for ideation
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ideation
Noun
  • Knowledge workers such as scientists, teachers, lawyers and business leaders are increasingly using generative artificial intelligence applications for tasks that demand imagination, creativity and problem-solving.
    — Monideepa Tarafdar, The Conversation, 2 Oct. 2026
  • Duncan Wardle, author of The Imagination Emporium and former Disney VP of innovation and creativity, now leads iD8 & innov8.
    — Duncan Wardle, Forbes.com, 1 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Welcome to Miyazawa’s fantastical world, where nature, imagination, and a quiet sense of morality coexist.
    — Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 4 Oct. 2026
  • De Brigard’s research shows just how intertwined our brain’s memory is with imagination.
    — Allison Parshall, Scientific American, 3 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • There's also a palpable new seam of imaginativeness among residents.
    — Toby Skinner, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 Nov. 2024

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Ideation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ideation. Accessed 8 Oct. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster