noun

invention

in-VEN-shuhn/ɪnˈvenʃn/

The creation of an original thing through imagination.

This handmade page-turning invention brings an original design to life.

Handmade page-turning prototype with design drawings.

Etymology

inLatinin, upon

+ventLatinto come

+ionLatinact or process

The pieces give the image of “coming upon” something, hence finding or discovering it. Invention extended from discovery and devising to the new thing produced.

In context

Chicago Humanities4:31

with that level of change, it's an interesting thing, think about it, right here in this room, we're looking at a screen, that's an invention

Bruce D. Perry: Social & Emotional Development in Early Childhood [CC]

More examples

The invention of the telephone changed how people communicate.
She sketches her inventions before building them.
His excuse about a broken elevator is a complete invention.

Forms

invention · inventions

invent verb — To create something new through imagination.

inventor noun — A person who creates something new.

Similar words

creation: Creation covers making anything, not necessarily something entirely original.
innovation: Innovation often improves existing things rather than creating entirely new ones.