initiative Definition

initiative
noun

1. The ability or skill to initiate things, take decisions or act resourcefully.

Thesaurus: eagerness, enthusiasm, energy, push, vigour, enterprise, ambition, get-up-and-go (slang), inventiveness.
2. A first step or move towards an end or aim.

Thesaurus: first step, first move, start, lead, opening, responsibility.
Form: take the initiative (especially in)
3. The right or power to begin something.

Form: the initiative (especially)
4. The right of voters, eg in Switzerland and certain US states, to originate legislation.

adj

1. Serving to begin; introductory.

Idiom: on one's own initiative

As a result of one's own action; without needing to be prompted by others.

Etymology: 17c.