original

The definition of an original is the earliest form of something, or something different and unique.

(noun)

The very first iPod ever created is an example of the original iPod.
A painting actually painted by Van Gogh, as opposed to a copy or reprint, is an example of an original Van Gogh.
A person who doesn't follow the crowd but who instead does his own thing is an example of someone who is original.

See original in Webster's New World College Dictionary

adjective

having to do with an origin; first; earliest
never having occurred or existed before; fresh; new; novel
capable of or given to inventing or creating something new, or thinking or acting in an independent, individual, fresh way
coming from someone as the originator, maker, author, etc.
being that from which reproductions, copies, etc. have been made

Origin: OFr < L originalis

noun

a pristine form or primary type that has given rise to varieties
an original work, as of art or literature, as distinguished from a reproduction, copy, etc.
the person or thing represented in a painting or the like
1. a person with an original and creative mind
2. Archaic an eccentric person
Archaic an originator

Origin: Fr < the adj.

See original in American Heritage Dictionary 4

adjective

Preceding all others in time; first.
a. Not derived from something else; fresh and unusual: an original play, not an adaptation.
b. Showing a marked departure from previous practice; new: a truly original approach. See Synonyms at new.
Productive of new things or new ideas; inventive: an original mind.
Being the source from which a copy, reproduction, or translation is made.

noun

A first form from which other forms are made or developed: Later models of the car retained many features of the original.
a. An authentic work of art: bought an original, not a print.
b. Work that has been composed firsthand: kept the original but sent a photocopy to his publisher.
A person who is appealingly odd or curious; a character.
Archaic The source from which something arises; an originator.

Origin:

Origin: Middle English

Origin: , from Old French

Origin: , from Latin orīginālis

Origin: , from orīgō, orīgin-, source; see origin

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