ENGLISH
REFERENCE

brainstorming

n.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈbɹeɪnˌstɔɹmɪŋ// UK //bɹˈeɪnstɔːmɪŋ// brain·storm·ing
Definition

n. a meeting where a group of people tries to come up with many new ideas. You use this when you need to solve a problem or create something new.

n. a collaborative process in which a group of individuals generates a large number of ideas for the solution to a problem. Often involves a free-flowing exchange of thoughts without immediate criticism.


SIMPLE

We had a great brainstorming session this morning.

CONTEXTUAL

The marketing team spent the afternoon in brainstorming to develop a new slogan for the product launch.

COMPLEX

Effective brainstorming requires a supportive environment where participants feel safe to share unconventional thoughts without fear of immediate judgment from their peers.

Origin

From brainstorm + -ing.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Last updated May 19, 2026