recalibrate

verb

re·​cal·​i·​brate (ˌ)rē-ˈka-lə-ˌbrāt How to pronounce recalibrate (audio)
recalibrated; recalibrating; recalibrates

transitive verb

: to calibrate (something) again
… these systems gradually drift off course so that the navigator periodically needs a fresh point of reference to recalibrate the navigation system.Stefi Weisburd
The problem is that eating more doesn't sate us; we merely recalibrate how much we think we need.Nando Pelusi
recalibration noun
plural recalibrations
Literacy standards were in need of constant recalibration, as each new phase of the war could inflate or deflate the value of existing skills, inflate or deflate the effectiveness of existing induction policies and instructional efforts. Deborah Brandt

Examples of recalibrate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Each image recalibrates what feels worthy of my grief. Reem Kassis, The Atlantic, 11 Oct. 2025 But last season’s disappointment is forcing them to recalibrate their priorities. Peter Baugh, New York Times, 11 Oct. 2025 When the past does indeed come knocking on Bob’s door, flushing him out of his home with shock troops and smoke grenades, Bob is forced to violently recalibrate his relationship to the present. David Ehrlich, IndieWire, 10 Oct. 2025 This is an excuse to recalibrate – not a delay – as the moon enters Gemini. Usa Today, USA Today, 10 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for recalibrate

Word History

First Known Use

1883, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of recalibrate was in 1883

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Cite this Entry

“Recalibrate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/recalibrate. Accessed 18 Oct. 2025.

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