recycle

[ ree-sahy-kuhl ]

verb (used with object)

, re·cy·cled, re·cy·cling.

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)

, re·cy·cled, re·cy·cling.

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

Derived Forms

• reˈcyclable, adjectivenoun

Other Words From

• re·cycla·ble adjective
• re·cycla·bili·ty noun
• re·cycler re·cyclist noun
• nonre·cycla·ble adjective
• unre·cycled adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of recycle¹

First recorded in 1925–30; re- + cycle

Example Sentences

People often imagine giving up plastic straws or switching to recycled paper towels in order to help the environment.

From Salon

While implanting a recycled pacemaker is not legal in the U.S., the Food and Drug Administration does allow refurbished devices to be exported.

From Science Daily

The rest of the tire, meanwhile, can be recycled using classic plastic recycling methods -- a plus, given there currently are no alternatives for tires in general.

From Science Daily

But researchers are now saying products made from recycled black plastic contain even more toxic components.

From Los Angeles Times

Tufts of black lambswool and recycled nylon sprout up in contrast to the conventional ribbed beanie brim, an homage to the overactive crown chakra that is every Sagittarian’s secret weapon and downfall.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• convert