originator

noun

orig·​i·​na·​tor ə-ˈri-jə-ˌnā-tər How to pronounce originator (audio)
plural originators
: someone or something that originates or gives rise to something
the originator of the idea/theory
a technique named after its originator
Persia was the originator of melons, cucumbers, and pears.Carol Bly

Examples of originator in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Netanyahu was the originator of this assumption, and its biggest proponent. Anshel Pfeffer, The Atlantic, 27 Mar. 2024 Most recently, Benz was the originator of the conspiracy theory that Taylor Swift is part of a Pentagon psychological operation to influence the election. Brandy Zadrozny, NBC News, 23 Mar. 2024 The company is the originator of progressive Irish dance, pushing the boundaries of a traditional form through a performing arts lens. Duante Beddingfield, Detroit Free Press, 15 Mar. 2024 As some of the originators of the South’s signature Hip-Hop sound, both Jermaine Dupri and Uncle Luke know more than a thing or two about the spirit of Freaknik. Rivea Ruff, Essence, 21 Mar. 2024 Buddy’s Pizza opens 23rd location The expansion of hometown Detroit-style pizza originator Buddy Pizza continues. Susan Selasky, Detroit Free Press, 28 Feb. 2024 Grande is inheriting the role of Glinda from Broadway originator Kristin Chenoweth, who gave her a stamp of approval when the movie’s casting was announced in 2021. Jack Smart, Peoplemag, 27 Feb. 2024 We are blessed and stuck with this piece, a flawed classic that exemplifies our nation’s unsettled relationship with the originators of African American music and technique. Ethan Iverson, New York Times, 26 Jan. 2024 Now, the pop superstar’s fans are launching a familiar social media campaign against its originator. Malia Mendez, Los Angeles Times, 9 Dec. 2023

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

Word History

First Known Use

1785, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of originator was in 1785

Dictionary Entries Near originator

Cite this Entry

“Originator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/originator. Accessed 16 Apr. 2024.

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