adj
Uncommon
imaginative
ih-MAD-zhih-nuh-tihv
Imaginative (adj) means showing creativity or a strong ability to invent new ideas. Example: “The chef came up with an imaginative new dessert.”
adj
1
Showing creativity or a strong ability to invent new ideas.
"The chef came up with an imaginative new dessert."
"Her imaginative solution saved the company thousands of dollars."
How to use imaginative
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishCreative, inventive — good at coming up with original ideas.
Common mistake
Don't mix up with "imaginary" (not real) — "imaginative" describes a creative mind or approach, not something fictional.
Easily confused with
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more imaginative
- Superlative
- most imaginative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The chef came up with an _____ new dessert.
Etymology
From Middle French imaginatif, from Medieval Latin imaginativus, built on "imagine" plus "-ative."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for imaginative
See all rhymes for imaginative →Frequently asked questions
What does “imaginative” mean?
The word “imaginative” means showing creativity or a strong ability to invent new ideas. In plain terms, creative, inventive — good at coming up with original ideas.
How do you pronounce “imaginative”?
“Imaginative” is pronounced ih-MAD-zhih-nuh-tihv (/ɪˈmæd͡ʒɪnətɪv/ in IPA).
How do you use “imaginative” in a sentence?
Here is “imaginative” used in a sentence: “The chef came up with an imaginative new dessert.”
What part of speech is “imaginative”?
“Imaginative” is an adjective.
Where does the word “imaginative” come from?
The word “imaginative” comes from Medieval Latin. From Middle French imaginatif, from Medieval Latin imaginativus, built on "imagine" plus "-ative.".
Is “imaginative” a common word?
“Imaginative” is an uncommon word in modern English.
