Novel
Everyone else keeps adjusting the same old filter; one engineer tries sound waves instead. Before you know whether her method works, you need a word for how new it is.
Learn This WordMeaning
New and original; different from what has been known, used, or experienced before.
Memory trick
Connect novel with novelty, something new or unusual. A novel idea brings novelty to a familiar problem.
Examples
A novel method saved water.
The researchers tested a novel approach that used sound instead of chemicals to remove the particles.
For someone who had always lived inland, waking to the sound of waves was a novel experience.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Etymology
From Old French novel "new," from Latin novellus "new, young," a diminutive of novus "new."
Usage Notes
As an adjective, novel describes original methods, unfamiliar experiences, and new ideas. In SAT vocabulary questions, look for a contrast with established practice or an emphasis on originality.
Real-life contexts
Describe an idea: "That is a novel way to solve the problem."
Discuss research: "The study introduces a novel method."
Describe a first: "Working without a commute was a novel experience for me."
Common Mistakes
Distinguish the adjective from the noun meaning a book-length work of fiction. A novel technique is a new technique, not a technique used in a book. Novel does not automatically mean better or effective.
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Start LearningQuick Facts
Part of Speech
adjective
Difficulty
intermediateRelated Words
Pragmatic
Dealing with things sensibly and realistically in a way that is based on practical rather than theoretical considerations.
Efficacious
Successfully producing the intended result; effective in action.
Fledgling
A young bird that has just fledged; a person or organization that is new and inexperienced.