rebuild

Definition of rebuildnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb rebuild contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of rebuild are mend, patch, and repair. While all these words mean "to put into good order something that is injured, damaged, or defective," rebuild suggests making like new without completely replacing.

a rebuilt automobile engine

When would mend be a good substitute for rebuild?

The synonyms mend and rebuild are sometimes interchangeable, but mend implies making whole or sound something broken, torn, or injured.

mended the torn dress

Where would patch be a reasonable alternative to rebuild?

The meanings of patch and rebuild largely overlap; however, patch implies an often temporary fixing of a hole or break with new material.

patch worn jeans

When could repair be used to replace rebuild?

In some situations, the words repair and rebuild are roughly equivalent. However, repair applies to the fixing of more extensive damage or dilapidation.

repaired the back steps

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of rebuild In the last round of improvements at Longfellow Park in 2016, the district rebuilt entry retaining walls and walkway ramps in alignment with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Buczek said. Cam'ron Hardy, Chicago Tribune, 8 Apr. 2026 Power forward David Punch and wing Tanner Toolson’s decisions now loom as TCU will begin to rebuild its roster in the portal. Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 8 Apr. 2026 After destructive blazes such as last year’s Los Angeles wildfires, rebuilding costs often surge with demand, the report found, making policies even less likely to cover them fully. Ethan Varian, Mercury News, 8 Apr. 2026 This supply will need to be rebuilt, over time and at significant expense. Politifact, Dallas Morning News, 8 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for rebuild
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rebuild
Verb
  • The roadway is being reconstructed, including resurfacing, curb and gutter replacement, and Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant upgrades.
    Gloria Casas, Chicago Tribune, 8 Apr. 2026
  • Piece by piece, Brilvitch reconstructed the story by mapping land ownership, tracing family connections and uncovering evidence of Black wealth and influence that contradicted what many had been taught.
    Reginald David, Hartford Courant, 7 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • For eight years, Ruth has cared for and rehabilitated non-native exotic animals like bearded dragons, guinea pigs, sugar gliders and leopard geckos in hopes of one day finding them a forever home.
    Julian Camejo, Miami Herald, 4 Apr. 2026
  • The original agreement required the developer to rehabilitate a building already on the site to provide a workspace for parks employees.
    Susannah Bryan, Sun Sentinel, 4 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Each generation is accused of selling out true conservative principles in order to govern; a radical flank fantasizes about restoring the Party to those principles.
    Antonia Hitchens, New Yorker, 6 Apr. 2026
  • Focusing on a snack that is rich in carbohydrates and proteins will help rebuild and restore muscles.
    Dr. Sarah Kinsella, Boston Herald, 5 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Rebuild.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rebuild. Accessed 12 Apr. 2026.

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