novel
/ˈnɒvl̩/
As a noun, it describes an extended work of fiction. It implies a level of depth and character development that separates it from a short story or a novella. The 'feeling' is one of immersion into a constructed world. As an adjective, it denotes more than just being 'new.' It carries a connotation of originality, creativity, and often a surprising quality. While 'new' is neutral, 'novel' suggests a break from tradition or a clever departure from the status quo. In professional or scientific contexts, the adjective form is used to describe an unprecedented discovery or method, stripped of artistic flair but retaining the sense of being the first of its kind.
💬Casual Conversation
This human 'spork' is a novel utensil. It confuses my mandibles.
It's for efficiency, Zorg. Multipurpose gear is standard issue.
Meanings
A fictitious prose narrative of considerable length and some complexity that examines the human experience through a connected sequence of events.
"She spent the entire summer reading a classic Victorian novel."
Collocations & Compounds
science novel
A novel that is based on scientific concepts or theories.
He is known for writing a groundbreaking science novel that explored artificial intelligence.
historical novel
A novel set in a period earlier than the time in which it was written.
The author won an award for her detailed historical novel about the Roman Empire.
debut novel
The first novel published by an author.
Her debut novel quickly became a bestseller.
graphic novel
A novel in comic-strip format.
Many young adults enjoy reading graphic novels for their visual storytelling.
novel idea
A new, unusual, or interesting idea.
That's a novel idea for solving the traffic problem.
Etymology
The word 'novel' comes from the Latin word 'novellus', a diminutive of 'novus', meaning 'new'. It entered English in the late 14th century, initially referring to something new or unusual. By the 15th century, it was used to describe a short prose narrative, a form distinct from epics or romances. The meaning evolved over time to refer to a long fictional prose narrative, which is its primary meaning today. The adjective 'new' or 'original' usage also persists.