imagination

The definition of imagination is the ability to come up with mental images of something that is not real or to come up with new and creative ideas.

(noun)

When a child is playing house and creates a pretend story, this is an example of a child using his imagination.

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See imagination in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

    1. the act or power of forming mental images of what is not actually present
    2. the act or power of creating mental images of what has never been actually experienced, or of creating new images or ideas by combining previous experiences; creative power
  1. anything imagined; mental image; creation of the mind; fancy
  2. a foolish notion; empty fancy
  3. the ability to understand and appreciate imaginative creations of others, esp. works of art and literature
  4. resourcefulness in dealing with new or unusual experiences
  5. Obsolete an evil plan or scheme

Origin: ME ymaginacioun < OFr imagination < L imaginatio < pp. of imaginari: see imagine

See imagination in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun
  1. a. The formation of a mental image of something that is neither perceived as real nor present to the senses.
    b. The mental image so formed.
    c. The ability or tendency to form such images.
  2. The ability to confront and deal with reality by using the creative power of the mind; resourcefulness: handled the problems with great imagination.
  3. A traditional or widely held belief or opinion.
  4. Archaic
    a. An unrealistic idea or notion; a fancy.
    b. A plan or scheme.

Related Forms:

  • i·magˌi·naˈtion·al adjective

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