redefine

verb

re·​de·​fine ˌrē-di-ˈfīn How to pronounce redefine (audio)
redefined; redefining; redefines
Synonyms of redefine

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 How to pronounce redefine (audio)
noun

Synonyms of redefine

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Examples of redefine in a Sentence

learning that he had been adopted forced him to completely redefine his identity
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.
Users can choose help with brands already in their closet, help with shopping, defining or redefining their personal style, help with fit and sizing, building a capsule wardrobe and more. — Kanika Talwar, Footwear News, 1 Sep. 2026 The firms that understand this distinction can help redefine what a modern law practice can become. — Charles Lew, Forbes.com, 1 Sep. 2026 Since her start in the music industry in the 1960s, Parton used her working-class roots and rhinestone personality to redefine what success in the country music world could look like. — Ct Jones, Rolling Stone, 28 Aug. 2026 With help from an interior designer, a former architect transformed her Maine beach house into a colorful retreat that redefines coastal style. — Ella Field, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for redefine

Word History

First Known Use

1848, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of redefine was in 1848

Rhymes for redefine

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Browse Nearby Words

redefect
redefine
redefinition
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Cite this Entry

“Redefine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/redefine. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

redefine

verb
re·​de·​fine ˌrē-di-ˈfīn How to pronounce redefine (audio)
1
: to define (as a concept) again
redefined their terms
2
: to reexamine or reevaluate especially with a view to change
redefine our goals
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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