reset

verb

re·​set (ˌ)rē-ˈset How to pronounce reset (audio)
reset; resetting

transitive verb

1
: to set again or anew
reset type
reset a diamond
reset a circuit breaker
2
: to change the reading of often to zero
reset an odometer
reset noun
resettable adjective

Examples of reset in a Sentence

The machine reset the bowling pins. His broken leg had to be reset. reset the timer to 10 minutes The fire alarm was reset.
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.
At the spa, Thistle, guests can reset on daybeds surrounded by stunning blue-green tiled walls, dip into the indoor saltwater pool, or enjoy the saunas and steam room—all entirely complementary with your stay. Jess Feldman, Travel + Leisure, 20 July 2025 My kitchen circuit is on the Smart Home Panel 2, so even my oven and microwave clocks didn’t blink or need to be reset. Tony Bradley, Forbes.com, 18 July 2025 The manufacturer confirmed the issue and urged customers to reset the one-time password binding for all users as a precautionary measure. Christiaan Hetzner, Fortune, 17 July 2025 Bondi has said the missing minute is the result of an outdated recording system that resets nightly. Sonam Sheth, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for reset

Word History

First Known Use

1628, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of reset was in 1628

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Reset.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reset. Accessed 24 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

reset

verb
re·​set rē-ˈset How to pronounce reset (audio)
reset; resetting
1
: to set again or anew
reset a diamond in a new setting
2
: to change the reading of often to zero
reset a stopwatch
reset
ˈrē-ˌset
noun
resettable adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on reset

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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