innovation

noun

in·​no·​va·​tion ˌi-nə-ˈvā-shən How to pronounce innovation (audio)
1
: a new idea, method, or device : novelty
2
: the introduction of something new
innovational adjective

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What is the difference between innovation and invention?

The words innovation and invention overlap semantically but are really quite distinct.

Invention can refer to a type of musical composition, a falsehood, a discovery, or any product of the imagination. The sense of invention most likely to be confused with innovation is “a device, contrivance, or process originated after study and experiment,” usually something which has not previously been in existence.

Innovation, for its part, can refer to something new or to a change made to an existing product, idea, or field. One might say that the first telephone was an invention, the first cellular telephone either an invention or an innovation, and the first smartphone an innovation.

Examples of innovation in a Sentence

She is responsible for many innovations in her field. the latest innovation in computer technology Through technology and innovation, they found ways to get better results with less work. the rapid pace of technological innovation
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.
Recommendations: Finding a Sustainable Balance A sustainable solution must reconcile technological innovation with creators' economic interests. Virginie Berger, Forbes, 15 Mar. 2025 The future of trucking safety lies in finding this delicate balance between technological innovation and personal privacy rights. Kurt Knutsson, Cyberguy Report, Fox News, 15 Mar. 2025 On paper, Anvari’s slew of innovations should work. Ritesh Mehta, IndieWire, 14 Mar. 2025 His reputation for efficiency and innovation means that actors must be prepared to adapt quickly. Mark Davis, Newsweek, 14 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for innovation

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of innovation was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Innovation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/innovation. Accessed 19 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

innovation

noun
in·​no·​va·​tion ˌin-ə-ˈvā-shən How to pronounce innovation (audio)
1
: the introduction of something new
2
: a new idea, method, or device

More from Merriam-Webster on innovation

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