reuse

1 of 2

verb

re·​use (ˌ)rē-ˈyüz 

reused; reusing; reuses

transitive verb

: to use again especially in a different way or after reclaiming or reprocessing

the need to reuse scarce resources

reuse packing material as insulation

reuse

2 of 2

noun

re·​use (ˌ)rē-ˈyüs 

: further, different, or repeated use

Examples of reuse in a Sentence

Verb

I can reuse that container.

Recent Examples on the Web

Verb

However, as of 2026, there are no plans to reuse the bridge and some of the materials will be recycled, according to Rohlfing. —Eleanor Nash, Kansas City Star, 7 Apr. 2026

The archaeologist said the cannon showed clear signs of being deliberately decommissioned before being reused. —Andrea Margolis, FOXNews.com, 6 Apr. 2026

Noun

While large-scale solutions like water reuse systems and desalination can be expensive, these costs might be necessary to maintain adequate water supply in the region, because simply encouraging people to use less won’t be enough. —Dave White, The Conversation, 8 Apr. 2026

In 2023, MoDOT offered to donate the historic structure for reuse or preservation. —Eleanor Nash, Kansas City Star, 7 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Verb

1797, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1866, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for reuse

• abstruse
• abuse
• adduce
• atreus
• caboose
• cayuse
• conduce
• deduce
• diffuse
• disuse
• excuse
• footloose

Kids Definition

reuse

verb

re·​use

(ˈ)rē-ˈyüz

: to use again especially in a different way

reuse

-ˈyüs

noun