repurpose

[ree-pur-puhs]

verb (used with object)

repurposed, repurposing 

1. to adapt or utilize (something) for a new purpose.

   The objective is to create affordable housing by repurposing abandoned commercial properties.

Word History and Origins

Origin of repurpose¹

First recorded in 1980–85; re- ( def. ) + purpose ( def. )

Example Sentences

Disused department stores or empty office blocks could be repurposed into new health centres or housing, the government has suggested.

From BBC

"A lot of people repurpose flowers at weddings now," she said.

From BBC

Residents reported the Israeli military dispatched what they called “booby-trapped robots” — armored personnel carriers filled with explosives repurposed as unmanned drones — into city neighborhoods.

From Los Angeles Times

Instead, the thinking has veered towards smaller vessels in greater numbers that can be repurposed for different roles.

From BBC

Descanso Gardens has a new restaurant, Farmhouse, that features repurposed wood.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• reuse