English · Arts & Literature
improvisation
/ˌɪm.prə.vaɪˈzeɪ.ʃən/
[/ˌɪm.prə.vaɪˈzeɪ.ʃən/]
spontaneous performance
Advancednoun
Definition
The act of performing or creating something without preparation, making it up as you go.
Example
The jazz band's improvisation meant that no two performances of the song ever sounded the same.
The jazz band's improvisation meant that no two performances of the song ever sounded the same.
Etymology
From Latin 'improvisus' (unforeseen), from 'in-' (not) plus 'providere' (to foresee).
How & Where It’s Used
Central to jazz, comedy, and experimental theatre.