I. ə-ˈrij-ə-n ə l, -ˈrij-nəl noun
Date: 14th century
1. archaic : the source or cause from which something arises ; specifically : originator
2.
a. : that from which a copy, reproduction, or translation is made
b. : a work composed firsthand
3.
a. : a person of fresh initiative or inventive capacity
b. : a unique or eccentric person
II. adjective
Date: 14th century
1. : of, relating to, or constituting an origin or beginning : initial
the original part of the house
2.
a. : not secondary, derivative, or imitative
an original composition
b. : being the first instance or source from which a copy, reproduction, or translation is or can be made
3. : independent and creative in thought or action : inventive
an original artist
Synonyms: see new