Synonyms of restore

restore

verb

ri-ˈstȯr 

1

as in to revive

to bring back to a former condition or vigor

restore an old car

Synonyms & Similar Words

• revive
• recreate
• refresh
• renew
• renovate
• regenerate
• replenish
• repair
• revitalize
• redevelop
• rejuvenate
• freshen
• resuscitate
• revivify
• recharge
• reclaim
• refurbish
• rehabilitate
• reconstitute
• refreshen
• redesign
• remodel
• overhaul
• recondition
• reengineer
• refill
• remake
• modernize
• redo
• update
• rehab
• resupply
• make over

2

as in to return

to bring, send, or put back to a former or proper place

restored the trophy to its proper place at the center of the shelf

Synonyms & Similar Words

• return
• replace
• reconvey

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• take
• remove

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb restore differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of restore are refresh, rejuvenate, renew, and renovate. While all these words mean "to make like new," restore implies a return to an original state after depletion or loss.

restored a fine piece of furniture

When would refresh be a good substitute for restore?

The words refresh and restore are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, refresh implies the supplying of something necessary to restore lost strength, animation, or power.

a refreshing drink

When is rejuvenate a more appropriate choice than restore?

While the synonyms rejuvenate and restore are close in meaning, rejuvenate suggests the restoration of youthful vigor, powers, or appearance.

the change in jobs rejuvenated her spirits

When might renew be a better fit than restore?

The words renew and restore can be used in similar contexts, but renew implies a restoration of what had become faded or disintegrated so that it seems like new.

efforts to renew the splendor of the old castle

When is it sensible to use renovate instead of restore?

The meanings of renovate and restore largely overlap; however, renovate suggests a renewing by cleansing, repairing, or rebuilding.

the apartment has been entirely renovated

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of restore

Sacramento’s City Council emerged from a lengthy Tuesday night debate with plans to restore funding to city programs — including residential parking permits, youth events and immigrant legal aid — though some may be in jeopardy again next year. —Mathew Miranda, Sacbee.com, 22 May 2025

Senators are already promoting tweaks and rewrites, hoping to shave off some of the harsher cuts and restore some home-state projects that were slated for the dumpster. —Philip Elliott, Time, 22 May 2025

The Road to Palmyra After years of violence, Syrians hope to restore the ancient city in the desert. —The Dial, 22 May 2025

Two years ago, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass laid out an ambitious and expensive goal for her first city budget: restore the size of the Los Angeles Police Department to 9,500 officers. —David Zahniser, Los Angeles Times, 10 May 2025