Is magic invented or discovered? Is it inventive like Muggle technology?

manpreet Best Answer 2 years ago

Dumbledore explained that it was "ancient magic" which Lily used to sacrifice herself to save Harry and about which Voldemort knew but underestimated it.

But I knew, too, where Voldemort was weak. And so I made my decision. You would be protected by an ancient magic of which he knows, which he despises, and which he has always, therefore, underestimated — to his cost. I am speaking, of course, of the fact that your mother died to save you. She gave you a lingering protection he never expected, a protection that flows in your veins to this day. I put my trust, therefore, in your mother’s blood. I delivered you to her sister, her only remaining relative.

She may have taken you grudgingly, furiously, unwillingly, bitterly, yet still she took you, and in doing so, she sealed the charm I placed upon you. Your mother’s sacrifice made the bond of blood the strongest shield I could give you.

Order of the Phoenix, Chapter 37. Thanks to Anthony Grist for pointing out.

My question is, isn't all magic ancient (but, being too old, may be forgotten by many) or at least old?

Are new spells invented, like Muggle technology, or discovered gradually?