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

Two leading space scientists say there is a need to redefine the edge of the solar system by presenting a theory which states that measurements of the Milky Way's gravitational field, including its dark matter, redraws the sun's frontier. — Leonard David, Space.com, 16 Oct. 2026

It was followed, in 2013, by the 918 Spyder—a low-slung speed machine that helped redefine what a plug-in hybrid could be. — Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 15 Oct. 2026

Reports over the past year – in this publication and others – show citizens and local governments redefining concepts of home beyond a roof and walls to offer a sense of belonging, safety, and neighborly regard. — The Monitor's Editorial Board, Christian Science Monitor, 15 Oct. 2026

With this hardware, Nvidia and Microsoft are aggressively redefining mobile computing and setting the stage for the next decade of personal technology. — Brian Westover, PC Magazine, 15 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1848, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for redefine

• alkaline
• andesine
• anodyne
• anticline
• arginine
• asinine
• benzidine
• borderline
• byzantine
• calamine
• caroline
• centerline

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