əˌrijəˈnaləd.ē, -lətē, -i noun
( -es )
Etymology: French originalité, from original, adjective + -ité -ity
1. archaic : the quality or state of being authentic or genuine
2.
a. : freshness of aspect or design : independence or newness of style or character
modern Brazilian architecture … is full of originality and, above all, vitality — William Tate
b. : the power of independent thought or perception : capacity for constructive imagination or significant innovation : creative ability
the directness of blunt truth and … a bardic originality and vigor — C.B.Taylor
3.
a. patent law : creation of a useful device, design, or process not before known or created
b. copyright law : novelty in the form of expression rather than in subject matter