improvisation

noun

im·​pro·​vi·​sa·​tion (ˌ)im-ˌprä-və-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce improvisation (audio)
ˌim-prə-və-
also ˌim-prə-(ˌ)vī-
Synonyms of improvisationnext
1
: the act or art of improvising
2
: something (such as a musical or dramatic composition) improvised
improvisational
(ˌ)im-ˌprä-və-ˈzā-sh(ə-)nəl How to pronounce improvisation (audio)
ˌim-prə-və-
also ˌim-prə-(ˌ)vī-
adjective
improvisationally adverb

Synonyms of improvisation

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Examples of improvisation in a Sentence

that comedy skit was a totally unrehearsed improvisation
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
A little improvisation could make the rest of the day surprisingly efficient. — Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 28 Oct. 2026 The Midwest rock band Umphrey’s McGee is known for pairing progressive rock with nightly improvisation, stated casino officials in the release. — Addison Wright, Chicago Tribune, 28 Oct. 2026 Based on the amount of improvisation, the season may go beyond six episodes. — Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 23 Oct. 2026 Cohen is so naturally funny and quick with improvisation that there are plenty of laughs along the way. — Frank Scheck, HollywoodReporter, 22 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for improvisation

Word History

First Known Use

1777, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of improvisation was in 1777

Rhymes for improvisation

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Browse Nearby Words

improvisate
improvisation
improvisator
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Improvisation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/improvisation. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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Kids Definition

improvisation

noun
im·​pro·​vi·​sa·​tion (ˌ)im-ˌpräv-ə-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce improvisation (audio)
ˌim-prə-və-
1
: the act or art of improvising
2
: something that is improvised
improvisational
-shnəl How to pronounce improvisation (audio)
-shən-ᵊl
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on improvisation

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about improvisation

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