What does reconquer mean?
Reconquer is a verb meaning to take back or regain something that has previously been lost, seized, or surrendered. The word is especially associated with military campaigns, in which an army recovers territory or a city, but it can also describe winning back a title, position, reputation, or advantage. The prefix re- indicates repetition, while conquer implies defeating or gaining control over an opponent. As a result, reconquer normally suggests a clear contrast between a former loss and a later successful recovery. It can sound formal or dramatic, especially when used figuratively, while remaining fully standard in ordinary English.
verbTo regain possession of something, especially territory, a position, or a title, after it has been lost or taken by someone else.
- To regain possession or control of something, such as territory, a city, a title, or a former position, after it has been lost or taken.
"The kingdom sought to reconquer its lost northern provinces."
"The army returned to reconquer the city after the government collapsed."
"Her performance helped the team reconquer the championship."
To reconquer is to turn a former loss into a comeback: the word combines the idea of doing something again with the idea of victory.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does reconquer come from?
The word is formed in English by combining the prefix re-, meaning “again,” with conquer. Conquer comes through Old French from Latin conquirere, a compound of con-, meaning “together,” and quaerere, meaning “to seek.” Related English forms include conquest and conqueror.
Related word forms
How reconquer is actually used
The prefix re- emphasizes that the object of the action was previously possessed or controlled. It is commonly used in military and political contexts, but can also be used figuratively for recovering a title, position, or advantage.
Easily confused with reconquer
Conquer means to defeat or gain control of someone or something, whereas reconquer means to regain something that was previously lost or taken.