Originality is the aspect of created or invented works as being new or novel, and thus reproductions, clones, forgeries, or derivative works.

An original work is one not received from others nor one copied from or based upon the work of others. It is a work created with a unique style and substance.

The term "originality" is often applied as a compliment to the creativity of artists, writers, and thinkers. The modern idea of originality is tied to Romanticism, by a notion that is often called romantic originality.

The concept of originality is culturally contingent. At the time of Shakespeare, it was more common to appreciate the similarity with an admired classical work, and Shakespeare himself avoided "unnecessary invention". It wasn't until the start of the 18th century that the concept of originality became an ideal in Western culture.

The existence of originality has been questioned, as there are no clear boundaries when a derivative work is considered original.

 

Note:   The above text is excerpted from the Wikipedia article Originality, which has been released under the GNU Free Documentation License.