rewrite

American  

[ree-rahyt, ree-rahyt] / riˈraɪt, ˈriˌraɪt /

verb (used with object)

rewrote, rewritten, rewriting

1. to write in a different form or manner; revise.

   to rewrite the entire book.

2. to write again.

3. to write (news submitted by a reporter) for inclusion in a newspaper.

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noun

1. the news story rewritten.

2. something written in a different form or manner; revision.

   They loved the rewrite, and said it would be a blockbuster!

rewrite British  

verb

1. to write (written material) again, esp changing the words or form

2. computing to return (data) to a store when it has been erased during reading

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noun

1. something rewritten

Other Word Forms

• rewriter noun

Etymology

Origin of rewrite

First recorded in 1560–70; re- + write

Example Sentences

The exhibits are presented factually, offering layers of contextual information and avoiding editorializing—unlocking history, not rewriting it.

From The Wall Street Journal

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s child and adolescent immunization schedules, developed in public meetings and scientific papers by the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, have now been fully rewritten.

From Barron's

After trying it for a few weeks, doctors said the drafts weren’t helpful and required too much rewriting.

From The Wall Street Journal

One woman admitted to rewriting texts to friends multiple times to make sure she sounded body-positive enough.

From The Wall Street Journal

Who knew that Jordan Peele rewrote “Get Out” 400 times, or that Paul Simon composed his “Graceland” album by combing through all of his previous work?

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• edit
• rework