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

Promotions for that album referenced Malay’s work on Frank Ocean’s Channel Orange, the 2012 juggernaut that helped redefine R&B for the blog era. —Sameer Rao, Pitchfork, 17 Apr. 2026

Bay added that Govan has long pushed for a museum that matches Los Angeles’ innovation and global outlook, maintaining that the city can lead in redefining how art is experienced. —City News Service, Daily News, 16 Apr. 2026

The Chicago Bulls and the entire NBA are still reeling in the aftermath of a league-redefining gambling scandal. —Michael R. Sisak, Chicago Tribune, 16 Apr. 2026

But when war erupts and cracks appear in her relationship, Noga must redefine her role as an artist on a global stage. —Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 16 Apr. 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