repurpose

[ ree-pur-puhs ]

verb (used with object)

, re·pur·posed, re·pur·pos·ing.

1. to adapt or utilize (something) for a new purpose:

   The objective is to create affordable housing by repurposing abandoned commercial properties.

Word History and Origins

Origin of repurpose¹

First recorded in 1980–85; re- ( def ) + purpose ( def )

Example Sentences

He says it was never meant to be a protest tool—though he isn’t unhappy about how it has been repurposed.

From MIT Technology Review

In this case, you’d have to repurpose the content to rank for keywords with more relevant search intent.

From Search Engine Watch

Researchers have identified and are testing a variety of existing drugs that might be repurposed to fight the coronavirus early in infections.

From Science News

Our goal here is to repurpose existing content into something fresh.

From Search Engine Watch

The best approach is to check if repurposed compounds will actually bind to their intended target.

From Singularity Hub 

Rand Paul and Ted Cruz are trying to repurpose the Republicans as the party of the middle class.

From The Daily Beast

Related Words

• reuse