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originator

B1
noun

Pronunciation

UK

  • /ərˈɪdʒɪnˌeɪtə/

US

  • /ərˈɪdʒəˌneɪtər/

Description

An originator is not just anyone who has an idea. This word points to the person who starts something or is seen as its first source. Think of it like this: many people might copy a popular dance move, but only one person first came up with it. That person sets something new in motion and gives others something to follow. Being an originator is not always about a huge invention; it could be someone who starts a family tradition or creates a style that others begin to use.

For example, a writer might be called the originator of a new storytelling style, or your grandmother might be the originator of her famous seven-layer dip if everyone else uses her recipe. The word usually suggests that the person was first, or at least the main source, of an idea, method, or trend.

Examples

  1. 1

    Idea source

    She was the originator of the idea, but the whole team helped develop it.

  2. 2

    Teaching method

    The article credited him as the originator of the new teaching method.

  3. 3

    Rumor source

    The originator of the rumor later apologized for spreading it.

  4. 4

    Patent documents

    The company kept the originator's name on the patent documents.

  5. 5

    Mortgage lending

    Before approving the mortgage, the loan originator checked our income and credit history.

    • Domain

      loan originator

      someone who helps arrange a loan, especially a mortgage

Forms and spellings

2 forms open this card.

Main spelling

  • originatornoun

Forms

  • originatorspluralnoun