reset

American  

[ree-set, ree-set] / riˈsɛt, ˈriˌsɛt /

verb (used with object)

reset, resetting

1. to set again.

   to reset an alarm clock; to reset a broken bone.

2. to set, adjust, or fix in a new or different way.

   to reset priorities; to reset prices.

3. to illegally set back the odometer on (an auto or other vehicle) to a lower reading.

   a used-car dealer charged with resetting his cars.

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verb (used without object)

reset, resetting

1. to become set again.

   The alarm bell resets automatically.

noun

1. an act or instance of setting again.

2. an act or instance of setting, adjusting, or fixing something in a new or different way.

   A reset of relations between the two countries may be impossible. Company executives recognized the need for a reset in their business.

3. something that is set again.

4. a plant that is replanted.

5. a device used in resetting an instrument or control mechanism.

reset ¹ British  

verb

1. to set again (a broken bone, matter in type, a gemstone, etc)

2. to restore (a gauge, dial, etc) to zero

3. Also: clear.  to restore (the contents of a register or similar device) in a computer system to zero

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noun

1. the act or an instance of setting again

2. a thing that is set again

3. a plant that has been recently transplanted

4. a device for resetting instruments, controls, etc

reset ² British  

verb

1. to receive or handle goods knowing they have been stolen

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noun

1. the receiving of stolen goods

Other Word Forms

• resettable adjective
• resetter noun

Etymology

Origin of reset

First recorded in 1645–55; re- + set

Example Sentences

On the other hand, insofar as inflation expectations can reset higher in response to commodity price shocks, the Fed might need to engage in tightening that they would otherwise look to avoid.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

The cap would effectively reset A’s to Harvard’s 2011 levels, says the proposal, which applies to the undergrad college.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

A sustained rise in the price of oil is likely to lead to a jump in household energy bills in the UK, when the current cap is reset in July.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

Two days with no games allowed the Lakers to fully reset as they prepare for the final stretch of the regular season and a playoff run.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 29, 2026

“George’s schedule says we’ve got an hour before we reset the city,” Amar says, checking his watch too, to make sure.

From "Allegiant" by Veronica Roth

Related Words

• readjust
• reconstruct
• reorganize
• reposition
• reshuffle
• revamp
• rework