verb

improvise

IM-pruh-vyze/ˈɪmprəvaɪz/

To devise something in the moment using available means.

The pianist improvises a tune without any sheet music.

Black jazz pianist invents a tune at a piano, listening intently, no sheet music.

Etymology

imLatinnot

+proLatinahead

+viseLatinto see

Literally, the underlying image is 'not seen ahead,' which became 'not prepared beforehand.' To improvise is therefore to create or perform in the moment rather than follow something already prepared.

In context

British Radio Giggles20:26

each team will take turns to improvise a letter with the two players alternately adding one word each at a time.

Jack Dee Roasts The Audience | ISIHAC's Best Grumpy Intros & Pure Deadpan Misery

More examples

We improvised a curtain by hanging a blanket over the window.
When the microphone fails, she improvises a way to be heard.
The actors are improvising dialogue as they rehearse.

Forms

improvise · improvises · improvised · improvising

improvisation noun — Something created or performed without advance preparation.

Similar words

ad-lib: Usually means inventing speech or dialogue during a performance.
devise: Means inventing a solution, often with planning rather than spontaneously.