recycle

[ree-sahy-kuhl]

verb (used with object)

recycled, recycling 

1. to treat or process (used or waste materials) so as to make suitable for reuse.

   recycling paper to save trees.

2. to alter or adapt for new use without changing the essential form or nature of.

   The old factory is being recycled as a theater.

3. to use again in the original form or with minimal alteration.

   The governor recycled some speeches from his early days.

4. to cause to pass through a cycle again.

   to recycle laundry through a washing machine.

verb (used without object)

recycled, recycling 

1. to pass through a cycle again; repeat a process from the beginning.

2. to undergo reuse or renewal; be subject to or suitable for further use, activity, etc..

   The industry will recycle and become profitable once more.

noun

1. the act or process of recycling.

recycle

/ riːˈsaɪkəl /

verb

1. to pass (a substance) through a system again for further treatment or use

2. to reclaim (packaging or products with a limited useful life) for further use

3. to institute a different cycle of processes or events in (a machine, system, etc)

4. to repeat (a series of operations)

noun

1. the repetition of a fixed sequence of events

Other Word Forms

• recyclable adjective
• recyclability noun
• recycler noun
• recyclist noun
• nonrecyclable adjective
• unrecycled adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of recycle¹

First recorded in 1925–30; re- + cycle

Example Sentences

Aurubis is getting in on the demand for recycled copper in the U.S.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

But there are no recycled Love Islanders among the 19 stars in the first series of The Celebrity Traitors, which has got off to a cracking start.

Read more on BBC

One Beverly Hills will feature botanical gardens that reflect the diverse landscape of Southern California, with drought-resistant native plants fed solely on recycled water, including rainfall and the runoff from residents’ sinks and showers.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Compare that with Republicans, who not only believe in second chances but, more often than not, seem to prefer their presidential candidates recycled.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Anglian Water points out that it is not obliged to supply water for non-domestic use and suggests recycled water from the final stage of effluent treatment as a coolant rather than drinking water.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• convert