redefine

verb

re·​de·​fine ˌrē-di-ˈfīn 

redefined; redefining; redefines

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 

noun

Synonyms

• readdress
• reanalyze
• reconceive
• reconsider
• reevaluate
• reexamine
• reexplore
• rethink
• review
• revisit
• reweigh

Examples of redefine in a Sentence

learning that he had been adopted forced him to completely redefine his identity

Recent Examples on the Web

This level of emotional intelligence will not only enhance ROI but also redefine consumer trust by making marketing feel genuinely empathetic. —Sandy Carter, Forbes, 23 Dec. 2024

Benegal began his career in advertising before transitioning to filmmaking, a move that would redefine Indian storytelling. —Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 23 Dec. 2024

Each of their projects will examine The Future of Work through lenses as diverse as their backgrounds, offering poignant, innovative, and sometimes unexpected narratives that redefine the possibilities of work in modern society. —Okla Jones, Essence, 22 Dec. 2024

This sort of redefining and reimagining are behind Haney’s tour. —Thomas Curwen, Los Angeles Times, 20 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1848, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

redefine

verb

re·​de·​fine ˌrē-di-ˈfīn 

1

: to define (as a concept) again

redefined their terms

2

: to reexamine or reevaluate especially with a view to change

redefine our goals