rethink

verb

re·​think (ˌ)rē-ˈthiŋk How to pronounce rethink (audio)
rethought (ˌ)rē-ˈthȯt How to pronounce rethink (audio) ; rethinking

transitive verb

: to think about again : reconsider

intransitive verb

: to engage in reconsideration
rethink
ˈrē-ˌthiŋk How to pronounce rethink (audio)
ˈrē-ˈthiŋk
noun
rethinker noun

Examples of rethink in a Sentence

You had better rethink your decision. The government is rethinking its policy. He took a moment to rethink.
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.
This year the company launched an effort this year to rethink its EV manufacturing from the ground up and build a car that can compete on cost. Justin Worland, Time, 24 Oct. 2025 The incident did, however, prompt Wyatt to rethink her presence online and her role as an influencer. Tabitha Parent, PEOPLE, 24 Oct. 2025 The success has rightfully motivated EJAE to rethink her decision to operate primarily in the background of other K-pop artists’ careers. Jennifer Zhan, Vulture, 24 Oct. 2025 The rear suspension also had to be completely rethought, resulting in a unique, lifted, inboard setup that features the left- and right-rear coilover units sitting side by side where the back seats in a typical Mustang would be. Tim Stevens, Robb Report, 23 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for rethink

Word History

First Known Use

1509, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of rethink was in 1509

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Cite this Entry

“Rethink.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rethink. Accessed 28 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

rethink

verb
re·​think rē-ˈthiŋk How to pronounce rethink (audio)
rethought -ˈthȯt How to pronounce rethink (audio) ; rethinking
: to think about again : reconsider

More from Merriam-Webster on rethink

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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