improvisation

[ im-prov-uh-zey-shuhn, im-pruh-vuh- ]

noun

1. the art or act of improvising, or of composing, uttering, executing, or arranging anything without previous preparation:

   Musical improvisation involves imagination and creativity.

2. something improvised:

   The actor's improvisation in Act II was both unexpected and amazing.

Other Words From

• im·provi·sation·al adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of improvisation¹

First recorded in 1780–90; improvise + -ation

Example Sentences

He recorded a loose improvisation on his iPhone, humming along with the piano and narrating his rough concept for the director.

From Los Angeles Times

There were improvisations, installations, adaptations and novel collaborations among musicians and artists and media, with Mother Nature ever in the picture.

From Los Angeles Times

An evening of historic campaign songs followed by a meditative group improvisation served as psychological preparation for whatever the outcome.

From Los Angeles Times

Jenkins, who never wed or had children of her own, centered kids in her work, featuring them on her recordings and teaching them her core principles: careful listening, singing and improvisation.

From Los Angeles Times

But there is a sense they rely on such off-the-cuff improvisation, rather than the methodical working over and opening up of opponents.

From BBC

Related Words

• spontaneity