Definition of ideationnext
as in creativity
the ability to form mental images of things that either are not physically present or have never been conceived or created by others caregivers are trained to watch for signs of depression and suicidal ideation—some patients are likely to put their fantasies to action

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of ideation The agency in January requested the removal of boxed warnings for suicidal behavior or ideation from those medications. Emily Mae Czachor, CBS News, 10 Mar. 2026 Studies have also shown that extreme heat can exacerbate conditions such as depression, anxiety and suicide ideation. Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 14 Feb. 2026 The organization implements careful deployment of the capital, strengthened by human support to encourage and bolster ideation and creativity processes. Connie Etemadi, USA Today, 10 Feb. 2026 That governance model evolved over time, moving upstream into ideation and pilot phases rather than serving as a final gate. Peter High, Forbes.com, 29 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for ideation
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ideation
Noun
  • Be honest about what’s workable, and let creativity thrive within boundaries.
    Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 26 Apr. 2026
  • These details feel distinctly human, inviting curiosity, creativity, and connection.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 25 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Romantic Venus sextiles dreamy Neptune, softening conversations and opening space for empathy, imagination, and meaningful exchange.
    Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 26 Apr. 2026
  • Ko’s conception of the wuxia genre centers on imagination as a martial force.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 26 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • There's also a palpable new seam of imaginativeness among residents.
    Toby Skinner, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 Nov. 2024

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Cite this Entry

“Ideation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ideation. Accessed 1 May. 2026.

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