rename

verb

re·​name (ˌ)rē-ˈnām How to pronounce rename (audio)
renamed; renaming
Synonyms of renamenext

transitive verb

: to give (someone or something) a new name
renamed the street in honor of the late mayor
… a 16-year-old who left the Orthodox life a year ago. He has renamed himself Adam to cement the break …—Ron Kampeas
The program was actually a relatively simple … script that renames files on your hard drive …—Michael J. Miller

Examples of rename in a Sentence

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.
The council’s unanimous vote directs city officials to begin the process of renaming the five-acre plaza near the Biltmore Hotel as Biddy Mason Park. — Sandra McDonald, Los Angeles Times, 4 Sep. 2026 This week, Apple AND Google renamed Lake Ontario in their map apps. — Holly J. Morris, NPR, 4 Sep. 2026 The partnership includes renaming premium hospitality areas at Kroger Field and Rupp Arena. — Kathryn Gregory, Louisville Courier Journal, 3 Sep. 2026 One of Givenchy’s most recognizable styles, the creative director has reworked and renamed the boot. — Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 3 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for rename

Word History

First Known Use

1579, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rename was in 1579

Rhymes for rename

See All Rhymes for rename

Browse Nearby Words

renal splanchnic nerve
rename
Renan
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rename.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rename. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

rename

verb
re·​name
(ˈ)rē-ˈnām
: to give a new name to

More from Merriam-Webster on rename

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