Synonyms

reinstate

American

[ree-in-steyt] / ˌri ɪnˈsteɪt /

verb (used with object)

reinstated, reinstating

to put back or establish again, as in a former position or state.

to reinstate the ousted chairman.

reinstate British

/ ˌriːɪnˈsteɪt /

verb

(tr) to restore to a former rank or condition

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

reinstatement noun
reinstation noun
reinstator noun
unreinstated adjective

Etymology

Origin of reinstate

First recorded in 1620–30; re- + instate

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.

A judge recently sided with a legal challenge spearheaded by The New York Times and ordered the Pentagon to reinstate the passes of certain reporters.

From Salon • Apr. 8, 2026

The judge ordered the administration to reinstate the legal status and work authorization of those remaining.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 5, 2026

The group filed an injunction asking a federal judge to reinstate the club.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 26, 2026

The White House responded to the decision by saying it would reinstate the levies using other laws.

From BBC • Mar. 13, 2026

“And not behind a person, but behind the desire to reinstate the factions. Who says I need you?”

From "Allegiant" by Veronica Roth

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023