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

Dating back to 1947, this artisanal gelateria has perfected the texture of their gelato and offers an impressive selection ranging from classics like fior di latte to inventive new flavors like iced latte pistachio cream. —Anna Haines, Forbes, 9 Jan. 2025

And now, inventive drink creators are adding a scoop to beverages. —Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Jan. 2025

In a very competitive category Demi Moore’s triumph as Best Actress – Musical or Comedy in the wildly inventive horror comedy, The Substance, struck a nerve with a performance that will certainly register with other actors in a business where appearance can be everything. —Pete Hammond, Deadline, 6 Jan. 2025

Choices are traditional and inventive, including a cheese dog number. —Florence Fabricant, New York Times, 24 Dec. 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