reunification

American  

[ree-yoo-nuh-fi-key-shuhn] / riˌyu nə fɪˈkeɪ ʃən /

noun

1. the joining back together of people or things that were separated; reunion.

   The summit facilitated dialogue that would eventually contribute to German reunification.

   This new immigration law favors immigrants seeking reunification with parents, spouses, and children.

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Etymology

Origin of reunification

First recorded in 1870–75; re- ( def. ) + unification ( def. )

Explanation

Coming back together again after being separated or in conflict is called reunification. This noun is usually used to describe relations between countries, states, or territories. It's not uncommon that two countries will be allied and then find themselves clashing or even going to war against each other. If they eventually join forces again, it's an example of reunification. In recent history, the merging of East and West Germany back into one single country, in 1990, can be called reunification. Reunification, from the verb unify, comes from the Late Latin unificare, "make one."

Example Sentences

Melissa, Jesus and Irene sought to each have visitation with their daughter and reunification services to help them figure out a way to co-parent.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 25, 2026

"I hope she will contribute to the reunification of the motherland," he said.

From Barron's • Apr. 8, 2026

Germany renounced all claims to the city and its surrounds in 1990 as a price for German reunification.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 27, 2026

US First Lady Melania Trump has reportedly been involved in facilitating the reunification of children.

From BBC • Mar. 10, 2026

In late September 1990, barely a week before the reunification of Germany, Markus Wolf and his wife, Andrea, left their home and fled across the border into Austria.

From "Spies: The Secret Showdown Between America and Russia" by Marc Favreau