Word family noun origin original originality originator adjective original ≠ unoriginal verb originate adverb originally
From Longman Dictionary of Contemporary Englishoriginalityo‧rig‧i‧nal‧i‧ty /əˌrɪdʒəˈnæləti/ noun [uncountable] NEWwhen something is completely new and different from anything that anyone has thought of beforeoriginality of I was impressed by the originality of the plan. Her earlier work shows a lot of originality. A lot of his designs lack originality. a young writer of great originalityCOLLOCATIONSverbshave originalityThis book does not have the originality and power of his first novel.show originalityHis research shows originality and sustained effort.lack originalityThe music lacks originality, but is fun and well-played.adjectivesgreat originalityHis work showed great originality.startling originality (=used about something so new and different that it surprises you)We were amazed by the startling originality of his thinking.striking originality (=used about something so new and different that it makes you notice it)Any visitor will admire the striking originality of the building's architecture.sheer originality (=when something is very original)the sheer originality of his writing stylephrasesa spark of originality (=a small amount of originality)The show at least has a spark of originality, something that most TV programs seem to lack. Examples from the Corpus
originality• For Public Relations there must be two elements in the package, creativity and originality.• John Peel has encouraged hundreds of musicians on his programmes with his attitude that puts creativity and originality above musicianship.• She was a writer of astonishing imagination and originality.• So let the Review Board eat its words, when I win the annual all-industry award for originality.• I don't claim any great originality or depth, but it is the best I can do at the moment.• Recipes will be judged on originality and compatibility with the wine by a panel of chefs and Bay Area food mavens.• Joseph's view of kingship had no particular originality.• Nothing reveals the originality and spirit of a people better than this astonishing symbiosis.great originality• I don't claim any great originality or depth, but it is the best I can do at the moment. 