inventive

adjective

in·​ven·​tive in-ˈven-tiv 

1

: adept or prolific at producing inventions : creative

an inventive mind

2

: characterized by invention

an inventive method

inventively adverb

inventiveness noun

Synonyms

• artful
• clever
• creative
• imaginative
• ingenious
• innovative

Examples of inventive in a Sentence

They have given their new company an inventive name.

inventive ways to use leftovers

Recent Examples on the Web

Looking back on his career, Jones bristled at the idea that his later achievements were due to his stature and connections rather than consistently inventive musicianship. —August Brown, Los Angeles Times, 5 Nov. 2024

With the sound of clinking wine glasses, tastes of inventive veggies, and the voice of an award-winning chef, the Courier Journal's new dinner series kicked off Sunday at a popular Highlands restaurant. —Amanda Hancock, The Courier-Journal, 4 Nov. 2024

In his formally inventive work, McGuire used frames within frames to visually represent different time periods from the same place in one comic strip panel. —Katie Walsh, Twin Cities, 31 Oct. 2024

For a unique experience, attend the Sour Hour on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 5–6 p.m. for pickled apps and inventive briny cocktails. —Karen Norian, Travel + Leisure, 30 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

inventive

adjective

in·​ven·​tive in-ˈvent-iv 

: gifted with the skill and imagination to invent

inventively adverb

inventiveness noun