retrofit

American  

[re-troh-fit, re-troh-fit, re-troh-fit] / ˈrɛ troʊˌfɪt, ˌrɛ troʊˈfɪt, ˈrɛ troʊˌfɪt /

verb (used with object)

retrofitted, retrofit, retrofitting

1. to modify equipment (in airplanes, automobiles, a factory, etc.) that is already in service using parts developed or made available after the time of original manufacture.

2. to install, fit, or adapt (a device or system) for use with something older.

   to retrofit solar heating to a poorly insulated house.

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verb (used without object)

retrofitted, retrofit, retrofitting

1. (of new or modified parts, equipment, etc.) to fit into or onto existing equipment.

2. to replace existing parts, equipment, etc., with updated parts or systems.

noun

1. something that has been retrofitted.

2. an instance of updating, enlarging, etc., with new or modified equipment.

   A retrofit could save thousands of dollars.

adjective

1. being or characterized by a retrofit.

   retrofit units.

retrofit British  

/ ˈrɛtrəʊˌfɪt /

verb

1. (tr) to equip (a vehicle, piece of equipment, etc) with new parts, safety devices, etc, after manufacture

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Other Word Forms

• retrofittable adjective

Etymology

Origin of retrofit

retro- + fit ¹

Example Sentences

But unlike China, which built state control into the internet as the web spread decades ago, Russia is having to retrofit state control into complex systems.

From BBC

The company retrofitted properties using the UK government's ECO4 scheme, which provides grant funding to low income, vulnerable households for additions such as insulation, heat pumps or solar panels.

From BBC

Less red tape for restaurants: The approval process for independent restaurants that want to retrofit spaces is being streamlined under AB 671.

From Los Angeles Times

Capital Maritime gave the MIT team the blueprints of the Manzanillo Express, a containership, so they could create and test a computer model of a ship retrofitted with nuclear propulsion.

From The Wall Street Journal

People in Lexington hope Tyson will retrofit or sell its plant.

From The Wall Street Journal