rematch

American  

[ree-mach, ree-mach, ree-mach] / riˈmætʃ, ˈriˌmætʃ, ˈriˌmætʃ /

verb (used with object)

1. to match again; duplicate.

   an attempt to rematch a shade of green paint.

2. to schedule a second match for or between.

   to rematch the winners in each soccer league.

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noun

1. a second match between teams, challengers, etc.; return match.

rematch British  

noun

1. sport a second or return match between contestants

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verb

1. (tr) to match (two contestants) again

Etymology

Origin of rematch

First recorded in 1855–60; re- + match ²

Explanation

After a tie or an unsatisfactory result in a game or competition, people might call for a rematch to play again and settle the score. A rematch is a second game or competition between opponents who competed against each other before. Rematches are common in sports and in competitive games like chess, especially when the first outcome was close or controversial. For example, if a chess game ends in a draw — in which neither player wins — the players might agree to a rematch to determine a winner. Rematches add excitement and anticipation as competitors get another chance to prove themselves against a challenging opponent.

Example Sentences

What Sinner hadn’t counted on here was a rematch with his other nemesis: the scorching heat of the sun.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 28, 2026

Kickboxing legend Verhoeven, 37, described it as an "early stoppage" and called for a rematch but said it was up to Usyk.

From BBC • May 23, 2026

A rematch clause exists and, given the back-and-forth nature of those 11 rounds, it is a path both men may feel compelled to take.

From BBC • May 10, 2026

Instead, it shaped the Republican Mr. Giuliani, who lost to Dinkins in 1989 but won their rematch four years later.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 1, 2026

Turns out that our team is playing Manny in a rematch tonight, and Manny is bringing his superstar son.

From "Merci Suárez Changes Gears" by Meg Medina