improvisation

noun

(ˌ)im-ˌprä-və-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce improvisation (audio)
Definition of improvisationnext
as in impromptu
something that is performed, made, or done without preparation that comedy skit was a totally unrehearsed improvisation

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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 improvisation Arango is a guitarist and bassist from Cuba with deep musical roots in Afro-Cuban polyrhythms and improvisation. — Ramona Sentinel, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 Aug. 2026 The other two albums are devoted to the legendary bebop pianist, composer and improvisation genius Thelonius Monk. — Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 9 Aug. 2026 With its hairpin turns and madcap improvisations, the odyssey at the book’s center can seem, says our reviewer, like something sketched out by Jules Verne. — Danny Heitman, Christian Science Monitor, 7 Aug. 2026 The most surprising finding was that improvisation engages reward structures more than playing that scale. — Karen Barrett, The Conversation, 29 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for improvisation
Recent Examples of Synonyms for improvisation
improv
Noun
  • The friends previously appeared together on Smith-Bynoe’s live improv show Kool Story Bro.
    — Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 13 Aug. 2026
  • Fans of improv, musicals and audience participation will thoroughly enjoy this performance and should be prepared to repent for sins like eating a hamburger, owning too many snakes or yearning for a younger man.
    — Talia McWright, Twin Cities, 9 Aug. 2026
Definition of improv

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improving
improvisation
improvisational
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Cite this Entry

“Improvisation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/improvisation. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on improvisation

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about improvisation

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