- 1[only before noun] existing at the beginning of a particular period, process, or activity The room still has many of its original features. I think you should go back to your original plan. At the end of the lease, the land will be returned to the original owner. The original intention was to record about 80 speakers, divided equally between males and females.
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- 2new and interesting in a way that is different from anything that has existed before; able to produce new and interesting ideas an original idea That's not a very original suggestion. an original thinker the product of a highly original mind
- 3[usually before noun] painted, written, etc. by the artist rather than copied an original painting by a local artist The original manuscript has been lost. Only original documents (= not photocopies) will be accepted as proof of status.
Check pronunciation: original