born-again

American  

[bawrn-uh-gen, -uh-geyn] / ˈbɔrn əˌgɛn, -əˌgeɪn /

adjective

1. committed or recommitted to religious faith through an intensely religious experience.

   a born-again Christian.

2. reactivated or revitalized.

   a born-again conservatism in American politics.

3. enthusiastically committed.

   a born-again jogger.

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noun

1. a person who is characterized by a newfound faith or enthusiasm.

born-again British  

/ ˈbɔːnəˌɡɛn /

adjective

1. having experienced conversion, esp to evangelical Christianity

2. showing the enthusiasm of one newly converted to any cause

   a born-again monetarist

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noun

1. a person who shows fervent enthusiasm for a new-found cause, belief, etc

Etymology

Origin of born-again

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

The 21-year-old describes himself as a "born-again Christian" and says his religion is the most important thing in his life.

From BBC • Dec. 24, 2025

Right-wing provocateur Dinesh D’Souza — an Indian-American who was raised Catholic but became a born-again Christian — has also faced racist attacks.

From Salon • Oct. 21, 2025

Carter was a born-again evangelical Christian as well as a Democrat.

From Slate • Dec. 30, 2024

Out at the born-again lake, Coyote the junk dealer has contributed three kayaks and a canoe for anyone who feels like paddling.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 24, 2024

He was born-again, a state I did not share but respected.

From "Between the World and Me" by Ta-Nehisi Coates

Related Words

• doctrinal
• holy
• sacred
• sectarian
• theological