Search Dictionary
Definition of improvise

improvise

/ˈɪm.prə.vaɪz/
im · pro · vise
Adverb:improvisationally
•
Adjective:improvisational
•
Past Simple:improvised
•
Past Participle:improvised
•
Present Participle:improvising
JUMP TO:

improvise Lexical Profile

improvise Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To compose, perform, or utter something (such as music, verse, drama, or a speech) spontaneously without prior preparation.

Example

"When the teleprompter failed halfway through the broadcast, the anchor had to improvise the remainder of the segment."

2

To fabricate, devise, or provide something quickly in a time of need using whatever materials or resources happen to be available.

Example

"Stranded by the sudden snowstorm, the hikers managed to improvise a sturdy shelter from fallen pine branches."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for improvise
Antonyms
View all antonyms for improvise

• Nearby Words

improvisation
improvisational
improvisatrix
improvise
improviser
imprudence
imprudent

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 18th century from French improviser, from Italian improvvisare, ultimately from Latin improvisus ('unforeseen'), which combines in- ('not'), pro- ('before'), and videre ('to see').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Improvise. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/improvise
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.