retrace

American  

[ri-treys] / rɪˈtreɪs /

verb (used with object)

retraced, retracing

1. to trace backward; go back over.

   to retrace one's steps.

2. to go back over with the memory.

3. to go over again with the sight or attention.

4. re-trace.

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retrace British  

/ rɪˈtreɪs /

verb

1. to go back over (one's steps, a route, etc) again

   we retraced the route we took last summer

2. to go over (a past event) in the mind; recall

3. to go over (a story, account, etc) from the beginning

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Other Word Forms

• nonretraceable adjective
• retraceable adjective
• retracement noun

Etymology

Origin of retrace

1690–1700; < French retracer, Middle French retracier, equivalent to re- re- + tracier to trace ¹

Example Sentences

"We are not only retracing ancient pathways of trade, navigation, and cultural exchange, but also reaffirming India's position as a natural maritime bridge across the Indian Ocean."

From Barron's

I was retracing my steps of 20 years earlier to a scene of mass death I had never been able to erase from my mind.

From Los Angeles Times

OTTAWA—Retailers in Canada saw a jump in sales in November that retraces weak trade in recent months, hinting at a recovery in household consumption heading into the important holiday season.

From The Wall Street Journal

The Philippines National Bureau of Investigation said it is coordinating with police and armed forces to retrace the pair’s movements from Nov. 1 to Nov. 28.

From The Wall Street Journal

Industrial output in the U.S. increased in September, partially retracing an August slump, the Federal Reserve said Wednesday.

From The Wall Street Journal