ingenuity
UK: ˌɪndʒɪˈnjuːɪti | US: ˌɪndʒəˈnuːɪti
n. the quality of being clever, original, and inventive
n. the ability to solve problems in creative ways
ingenuity = ingen<natural ability> + uity<noun suffix>
- ingen (from Latin ingenium, meaning "natural ability" or "innate talent")
- uity (a noun-forming suffix derived from Latin -itas, indicating a state or quality)
Etymology Origin:
The word "ingenuity" traces back to the Latin ingenium, which referred to innate talent or cleverness. Over time, it evolved through Old French (ingenuité) into Middle English, retaining its core meaning of inventive skill. The suffix "-uity" (from Latin -itas) formalizes the abstract quality, transforming it into a noun. The word reflects the Renaissance ideal of human creativity and problem-solving, distinct from mere imitation.
The engineer’s ingenuity saved the project when the original design failed.
Her ingenuity in repurposing materials impressed the judges.
The invention showcased remarkable mechanical ingenuity.
Survival in the wilderness often depends on one’s ingenuity.
The toy’s simplicity belies the ingenuity behind its design.