invent

verb

in·​vent in-ˈvent How to pronounce invent (audio)
invented; inventing; invents

transitive verb

1
: to produce (something, such as a useful device or process) for the first time through the use of the imagination or of ingenious thinking and experiment
2
: to devise by thinking : fabricate
3
archaic : find, discover
inventor noun
inventress noun

Examples of invent in a Sentence

Thomas Edison invented the phonograph. She is credited with inventing a procedure that has helped to save thousands of lives. She invented a clever excuse. We found out that he had invented the stories he told us about his military service.
Recent Examples on the Web Tesla practically invented the concept of the connected Software Defined Vehicle, and the functionality available remains class leading. James Morris, Forbes, 19 Oct. 2024 Because these trails are on existing pathways that involve route connecting, pretty much anyone can invent an Instant Urban Trail. Miles Howard, Outside Online, 17 Oct. 2024 California Tooth decay still plagues California kids nearly a decade after Medi-Cal promised change Sept. 17, 2024 But brands have invented a whole new, lucrative category of toddler foods, from pouches and teething crackers to bars and puffs, Fleming-Milici said. Jenny Gold, Los Angeles Times, 17 Oct. 2024 The Weight of Lies In 1995, Julie Lane and Daniel Wegner, psychologists at the University of Virginia, invented a secret: the word mountain. Cody Cottier, Discover Magazine, 15 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for invent 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'invent.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin inventus, past participle of invenire to come upon, find, from in- + venire to come — more at come

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Time Traveler
The first known use of invent was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near invent

Cite this Entry

“Invent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/invent. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

invent

verb
in·​vent in-ˈvent How to pronounce invent (audio)
1
: to think up : make up
invent an excuse
2
: to create or produce for the first time
invented a new game
inventor noun

Legal Definition

invent

transitive verb
in·​vent
: to create or produce for the first time
inventor noun

More from Merriam-Webster on invent

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