original
uh-RIHJ-ih-nuhl
Original (adj) means the first of its kind, existing before any copies. Example: “This is the original painting — the one in the gallery is a copy.”
adj
1
The first of its kind, existing before any copies.
"This is the original painting — the one in the gallery is a copy."
"The museum keeps the original manuscript in a locked glass case."
"Only the original recipe uses the secret spice blend."
2
Fresh, inventive, and not copied from anything else.
"The band's original songs are far better than their covers."
"She came up with an original idea for the science project."
"His writing is original and quite unlike anything else I've read."
noun
1
The very first version of something, from which copies are made.
"Please keep the original and send us a scanned copy."
"The copy looks perfect, but the original is much older."
"Always check the photocopy against the original before you sign."
2
An unusually distinctive or eccentric person.
"Her grandfather was a real original, always full of odd stories."
"The village baker was a true original who sang while kneading dough."
"My aunt is an original, wearing yellow boots in every season."
How to use original
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe first, real, or genuinely inventive version of something — not a copy or imitation.
Common pairings
original copy
original idea
the original version
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Word forms
- Plural
- originals
- Comparative
- more original
- Superlative
- most original
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
This is the _____ painting — the one in the gallery is a copy.
Etymology
From Latin originalis, "primitive, original," from origo, "beginning."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for original
See all rhymes for original →Frequently asked questions
What does “original” mean?
The word “original” means the first of its kind, existing before any copies. In plain terms, the first, real, or genuinely inventive version of something — not a copy or imitation.
How do you pronounce “original”?
“Original” is pronounced uh-RIHJ-ih-nuhl (/əˈɹɪd͡ʒ.ɪ.nəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “original” in a sentence?
Here is “original” used in a sentence: “This is the original painting — the one in the gallery is a copy.”
What is another word for “original”?
Words with a similar meaning to “original” include autograph and prototype.
What is the opposite of “original”?
The opposite of “original” — its antonyms — are copy, reproduction, simile, derivative and ultimate.
What part of speech is “original”?
Depending on how it is used, “original” can be an adjective and a noun.
Where does the word “original” come from?
The word “original” comes from Latin. From Latin originalis, "primitive, original," from origo, "beginning.".
Is “original” a common word?
“Original” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
What is the difference between original and authentic?
They overlap but are not identical. 'Original' means the first version, existing before any copies were made. 'Authentic' means genuine and not fake — true to its claimed source. An original painting is the one the artist first made; an authentic one is verified as truly theirs, even if copies of it exist.
Does 'original' mean first or creative?
It can mean either, depending on context. In one sense, 'original' describes the first of its kind, existing before any copies — like the original manuscript. In another, it means new and inventive, showing fresh ideas — like an original design. Both senses share the notion of coming first or standing apart.
What is the opposite of original?
In the sense of being first, the opposite of 'original' is a copy, duplicate, or replica — something made to imitate the first version. When 'original' means fresh or inventive, its opposite is unoriginal, derivative, or conventional. The right antonym depends on whether you mean earliest or most creative.
What is an example of something original?
The original version of a document is the very first one, from which any photocopies are made. An original artwork is the piece the artist actually created, not a print or reproduction. In music, the original recording is the first release, as opposed to a later cover or remix.
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