initiative

i-ni-ti-a-tive · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    The ability to act independently and take charge; enterprise.

  2. 2.

    A new plan or program designed to solve a problem.

  3. 3.

    The power or opportunity to act before others do.

  4. 4.

    (US politics) A process by which citizens can propose new laws through petitions.

Forms

plural: initiatives

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    take the initiative — To be the first to act; to take charge.
  • •
    on one's own initiative — Without being told or asked.

Related words

Antonyms: inaction, passivity
See also: action, enterprise, initiate
Synonyms: drive, enterprise, resourcefulness

Etymology

From French initiative, from Latin initiare ("to begin"), from initium ("beginning").