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

But Jospin tripped up in his 2002 presidential rematch against Chirac, making a number of gaffes, including a swipe at his opponent's age that was seen as below the belt.

From Barron's • Mar. 23, 2026

Instead, the UFC opted to pit Volkanovski in a rematch against Brazil's second-ranked Diego Lopes, who he had beaten 10 months prior.

From BBC • Mar. 19, 2026

Gluesenkamp Perez defeated Kent again in a 2024 rematch.

From Slate • Mar. 17, 2026

After scoring a season-high 30 points against USC in their last meeting, Dent dropped 25 in the rematch.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 8, 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