redefine

verb

re·​de·​fine ˌrē-di-ˈfīn How to pronounce redefine (audio)
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
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.
Founded in Montego Bay in 1981, Sandals Resorts redefined what a Caribbean vacation could be. AFAR Media, 27 Sep. 2025 Across nearly two decades, Porter has defined and redefined the sound of Mexican indie rock. Tere Aguilera, Billboard, 26 Sep. 2025 Highlighting this, event ticking site, Eventbrite is seeing a 92% increase in sober gatherings, redefining the traditional night out with a fusion of wellness, music, and authentic community connections. Felicia Faber, FOXNews.com, 26 Sep. 2025 At Jil Sander, a blush pink style with sheer inserts was a instant crowd-pleaser, redefining modern femininity. Andrea Zendejas, Vogue, 25 Sep. 2025 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 1 Oct. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on redefine

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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