reinvent

American  

[ree-in-vent] / ˌri ɪnˈvɛnt /

verb (used with object)

1. to invent again or anew, especially without knowing that the invention already exists.

2. to remake or make over, as in a different form.

   At 60, he reinvented himself as a volunteer. We have an opportunity to reinvent government.

3. to bring back; revive.

   to reinvent trust and accountability.

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reinvent British  

/ ˌriːɪnˈvɛnt /

verb

1. to replace (a product, etc) with an entirely new version

2. to duplicate (something that already exists) in what is therefore a wasted effort (esp in the phrase reinvent the wheel )

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Other Word Forms

• reinvention noun

Etymology

Origin of reinvent

First recorded in 1685–90; re- + invent

Example Sentences

But reinventing a nearly 100-year-old format for the internet age has proved challenging for one of the world’s most technologically advanced companies.

From The Wall Street Journal

In an echoing Long Beach studio, an ambitious team of designers is trying to reinvent how electric vehicles are made.

From Los Angeles Times

Early in his career, Mr Furie experimented with uploading his work to the nascent social web, where other users began to borrow, remix and reinvent his character.

From BBC

The current version of Manchester City is unlike anything we have seen from them before though, so just how has Guardiola reinvented his team tactically?

From BBC

But it was his decision to put his name on a portable kitchen appliance—and a knack for reinventing himself—that made him rich beyond his wildest dreams.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• remake
• revive