anew
Americanadverb
-
over again; again; once more.
to play the tune anew.
-
in a new form or manner.
to write the story anew.
adverb
-
over again; once more
-
in a different way; afresh
Etymology
Origin of anew
before 1000; Middle English onew, of newe; see a- 2), Old English of niowe, probably modeled on Old French de neuf; replacing Old English edniwe once more
Explanation
When something happens anew, it happens again, but in a fresh way that might be different. Anew is a word to describe things that happen again but are more than just a rerun. If a couple takes their marriage vows anew, it's a little different than the first time. If a clothes trend happens anew, it's a revival of the original trend that probably won't be identical. This word applies to renewals and fresh starts of many kinds, though not always positive ones. Romances and barfights could both begin anew.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
It seems likely that with each passing year, humanity collectively forgets more of its cultural heritage than it manages to learn anew.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 23, 2026
Some of the renovations have been successful; fountains are running anew, including the long-dormant cascading water feature at the city’s popular Meridian Hill Park.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 2, 2026
At the border, you expect an easy entry; after all, as a lawful permanent resident, you generally do not need to seek admission anew each time you return from travel abroad.
From Slate ● Jun. 23, 2026
A time-hopping eight-part series follows a woman who returns to the idyllic town of her youth for a funeral, as old connections spark anew.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 10, 2026
In fear and wonder, Taran shrank back, his wound throbbing anew.
From "The Book of Three" by Lloyd Alexander
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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.