Refine this word faster

Stronger alternatives Opposite tone Use in context Cross-language nuance

Invent

//ɪnˈvɛnt// verb

Definitions

Verb
  1. 1
    To design a new process or mechanism.

    "After weeks of hard work, I invented a new way to alphabetize matchbooks."

  2. 2
    come up with (an idea, plan, explanation, theory, or principle) after a mental effort wordnet
  3. 3
    To create something fictional for a particular purpose.

    "I knew I had to invent an excuse, and quickly."

  4. 4
    concoct something artificial or untrue wordnet
  5. 5
    To come upon; to find; to discover. obsolete

    "Far off he wonders, what them makes so glad, / If Bacchus merry fruit they did inuent [...]."

Etymology

From Middle English inventen, borrowed from Old French inventer, from Latin inventus, perfect passive participle of inveniō (“come upon, meet with, find, discover”), from in (“in, on”) + veniō (“come”); see venture. Compare advent, covent, event, prevent, etc. Displaced native Old English āþenċan (literally “to think out”).

See also for "invent"

Synonyms Antonyms Rhymes Sentences Translate Word Type Pronunciation Word Forms

Next best steps

Find stronger synonymsSee usage examplesCheck pronunciation

Mini challenge

Unscramble this word: invent