redefine

verb

re·​de·​fine ˌrē-di-ˈfīn How to pronounce redefine (audio)
redefined; redefining; redefines
Synonyms of redefinenext

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
redefinition noun

Examples of redefine in a Sentence

learning that he had been adopted forced him to completely redefine his identity
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.
Despite a few glimmers of good feeling, today's fierce political divisions have redefined a milestone that has often been marked by unity and optimism, at least for a moment. Susan Page, USA Today, 22 June 2026 For a time, BP seemed to be trying to redefine itself faster than most of its peers. Robert Rapier, Forbes.com, 21 June 2026 Yet the more important revolution may be occurring much closer to the front, where inexpensive drones are removing personnel, disrupting logistics, degrading air defenses and redefining the relationship between mass, maneuver, and military power. Hunter Lacroix, Baltimore Sun, 20 June 2026 From one of fine jewelry’s most exciting creatives comes a unique bracelet that redefines what an emerald jewel can be. Jill Newman, Robb Report, 18 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for redefine

Word History

First Known Use

1848, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of redefine was in 1848

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Cite this Entry

“Redefine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/redefine. Accessed 23 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

redefine

verb
re·​de·​fine ˌrē-di-ˈfīn How to pronounce redefine (audio)
1
: to define (as a concept) again
redefined their terms
2
: to reexamine or reevaluate especially with a view to change
redefine our goals

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