rectify

[rek-tuh-fahy]

verb (used with object)

rectified, rectifying 

1. to make, put, or set right; remedy; correct.

   He sent them a check to rectify his account.

   Synonyms: amend, emend, mend
   Antonyms: muddle, worsen

2. to put right by adjustment or calculation, as an instrument or a course at sea.

   Synonyms: straighten, regulate, adjust

3. Chemistry.,  to purify (especially a spirit or liquor) by repeated distillation.

4. Electricity.,  to change (an alternating current) into a direct current.

5. to determine the length of (a curve).

6. Astronomy, Geography.,  to adjust (a globe) for the solution of any proposed problem.

rectify

/ ˈrɛktɪˌfaɪ /

verb

1. to put right; correct; remedy

2. to separate (a substance) from a mixture or refine (a substance) by fractional distillation

3. to convert (alternating current) into direct current

4. maths to determine the length of (a curve)

5. to cause (an object) to assume a linear motion or characteristic

Other Word Forms

• self-rectifying adjective
• rectification noun
• rectifiable adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of rectify¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English rectifien, from Middle French rectifier, from Medieval Latin rēctificāre, from Latin rēct(us) “right, straight” + -ificāre -ify; right

Word History and Origins

Origin of rectify¹

C14: via Old French from Medieval Latin rectificāre to adjust, from Latin rectus straight + facere to make

Example Sentences

They said the president invoked the tariffs not to raise revenue but to “rectify America’s country-killing trade deficits and to stem the flood of fentanyl and other lethal drugs across our borders.”

From Los Angeles Times

The goal, according to authorities, is to "rectify negative emotions" and "create a more civilised and rational online environment".

From BBC

"If I felt like I was in a completely different headspace, then it's kind of easier to blame it on that. And also a problem to rectify, I guess," Piastri said.

From BBC

This seemed glaringly apparent from the get-go, but now that it’s finally come to the forefront, it should allow Fox to rectify a wrong when they demoted Greg Olsen in favor of Brady.

From Los Angeles Times

And they know what happens when it doesn’t get rectified before the playoffs.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• amend 
• fix 
• improve 
• redress 
• remedy 
• straighten out