Creativity defined: an examination of definitions

This paper seeks to bring definitional clarity on creativity by providing evidence of its conceptual categories. It examines 94 definitions selected through the analysis of 50 books and 462 articles published in selected management journals, by applying content analysis methodology to these definitions. Results suggest that six conceptual categories on creativity enjoy general support: creation, synthesis, output, modification, interactions, and engagement. All these conceptual categories are analyzed in depth. By bringing definitional clarity on creativity, this study provides a theoretical contribution to the literature and integrates different research streams.