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 of redefine

• reconsider
• revisit
• review

Examples of redefine in a Sentence

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

Recent Examples on the Web

Part of his great accomplishment was to take the European aesthetic of beauty and redefine it for the South, with its heat and its billboards, its indolence and humor and thick nights. —Hilton Als, New Yorker, 24 Jan. 2026

With a commitment to accuracy, accountability, and innovation, the AJC is building on its legacy to redefine what a local news brand can be. —Hugo Rojo, AJC.com, 23 Jan. 2026

The Midway Project is the anchor to redefining the Midway District. —Phillip Molnar, San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 Jan. 2026

That tension—between constant connectivity and emotional distance—is redefining what travelers value. —Jeff Fromm, Forbes.com, 23 Jan. 2026

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