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Synonyms

innovation

American  
[in-uh-vey-shuhn] / ˌɪn əˈveɪ ʃən /

noun

  1. something new or different introduced.

    numerous innovations in the high school curriculum.

  2. the act of innovating; introduction of new things or methods.


innovation British  
/ ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən /

noun

  1. something newly introduced, such as a new method or device

  2. the act of innovating

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Usage

What does innovation mean? Innovation can refer to something new, such as an invention, or the practice of developing and introducing new things.An innovation is often a new product, but it can also be a new way of doing something or even a new way of thinking. Innovation is most commonly associated with business and technology, but it happens in any field where people introduce change, including the arts, medicine, politics, cooking, language—even philosophy and religion.Example: The internet changed society and is often considered the ultimate example of innovation, but it was built on the backs of many smaller, previous innovations.

Other Word Forms

  • innovational adjective
  • innovationist noun

Etymology

Origin of innovation

First recorded in 1540–50; from Late Latin innovātiōn- (stem of innovātiō ); innovate, -ion

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The 1960s version of the future is way more fun than our reality—but when it comes to innovations, we’re catching up.

From The Wall Street Journal

Business leaders have also privately complained that migrating all online services onto Max risks stifling innovation and limiting Russia’s ability to compete with China and the U.S.

From The Wall Street Journal

Majorities of each also said they believe AI can boost creativity and innovation.

From Los Angeles Times

In this phase of "multiple transformations," the institutes recommend the German government "increase incentives for employment" and ease regulations to "improve conditions for investment and innovation".

From Barron's

This innovation could lead to improved camouflage systems for both humans and robots, as well as flexible displays that change color for wearable devices.

From Science Daily