original

adj. existing from the beginning, or being the first version of something.

adj. pertaining to the origin or beginning; preceding all others in time or series.

“The original plan was to go to the beach, but we stayed home because of the rain.”

“The original manuscript was lost during the war, so modern editions are based on a secondary copy found in a private library.”

adj. new and interesting in a way that is different from anything else.

adj. not dependent on other people's ideas; showing a marked departure from traditional or existing styles.

“She has some very original ideas for how to decorate the office.”

“The director's original approach to the classic play breathed new life into a story that many critics had considered exhausted.”

n. the first version of a document, painting, or piece of music, rather than a copy.

n. a primary work or document from which copies, translations, or reproductions are made.

“Keep a copy of the contract for yourself and send the original to us.”

“While the prints are affordable, the museum is currently negotiating the purchase of the original oil painting for its permanent collection.”

n. a person who has a very interesting or unusual personality.

n. an individual with a unique, eccentric, or highly creative character.

“My grandfather was a real original; he always did things his own way.”

“In an industry full of people trying to fit in, she stood out as a true original who never compromised her artistic vision.”

Informal