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

Aurora community members are leading a push to restore the Northgate Shopping Center’s historic sign, which has long been recognized as a local landmark by the city. —R. Christian Smith, Chicago Tribune, 29 Mar. 2026

The city is working on several projects to restore and retain sand there. —Phil Diehl, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 Mar. 2026

If most officers report back beginning Monday and airports are able to restore staffing, wait times could start to ease within several days to a couple of weeks, Pistole said. —Mirna Alsharif, NBC news, 28 Mar. 2026

And, last summer, a panel of appellate judges restored her award to the full amount. —Julia Haney, NPR, 28 Mar. 2026