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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
- the act or power of forming mental images of what is not actually present
- 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
- anything imagined; mental image; creation of the mind; fancy
- a foolish notion; empty fancy
- the ability to understand and appreciate imaginative creations of others, esp. works of art and literature
- resourcefulness in dealing with new or unusual experiences
- 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
- 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.
- The ability to confront and deal with reality by using the creative power of the mind; resourcefulness: handled the problems with great imagination.
- A traditional or widely held belief or opinion.
- 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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