redefine

verb

re·​de·​fine ˌrē-di-ˈfīn 

redefined; redefining; redefines

transitive verb

1

: to define (something, such as a concept) again : reformulate

had to redefine their terms

2

a

: to reexamine or reevaluate especially with a view to change

b

: transform sense 1c

redefinition

(ˌ)rē-ˌde-fə-ˈni-shən 

noun

Synonyms

• readdress
• reanalyze
• reconceive
• reconsider
• reevaluate
• reexamine
• reexplore
• rethink
• review
• revisit
• reweigh

Examples of redefine in a Sentence

learning that he had been adopted forced him to completely redefine his identity

Recent Examples on the Web

Aging is being redefined not as a linear path to decline, but as a modifiable, and in some ways reversible, biological process. —Brent Gleeson, Forbes.com, 23 May 2025

This will, in turn, redefine your sense of independence and strength, urging you to balance that fire and passion with responsibility and integrity. —Valerie Mesa, People.com, 23 May 2025

The New Guard Award: Phylicia Fant, a powerhouse music executive, will receive The New Guard Award, celebrating her role as a transformative leader, inspiring future generations and redefining the music industry. —Demicia Inman, VIBE.com, 22 May 2025

Forsythe has redefined the boundaries of classical ballet, introducing improvisation techniques and innovative artistic approaches. —David L. Coddon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1848, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for redefine

• acridine
• alkaline
• andesine
• anodyne
• anticline
• arginine
• asinine
• atropine
• benzidine
• borderline
• byzantine
• calamine

Kids Definition

redefine

verb

re·​de·​fine ˌrē-di-ˈfīn 

1

: to define (as a concept) again

redefined their terms

2

: to reexamine or reevaluate especially with a view to change

redefine our goals