What does reconversion mean?
Reconversion is the act or process of changing something back to an earlier or original form, state, or function. It differs from ordinary conversion, which changes one thing into another, because reconversion explicitly implies a second movement in the opposite direction. The term may describe institutional or commercial changes, such as reconverting a building to its former purpose, or technical processes involving energy and electrical power. In power systems, reconversion can refer to changing direct current into alternating current, including when energy is stored and later returned to a usable electrical form. Although less common than conversion in general conversation, reconversion is useful when the direction and reversibility of a change matter. Its prefix re- clearly signals that an earlier transformation is being undone or reversed.
nounThe process of converting something back to its previous or original form, state, or function. It is also used in technical contexts for converting one form of electrical power back into another.
- The act or process of changing something back to its original form, state, or function.
- The conversion of electrical energy or power from one form back into another, especially from direct current to alternating current.
"The converter allows for the reconversion of stored energy into usable electricity."
"After the temporary conversion, the building was reconverted to its original use."
"The system supports the reconversion of stored electrical energy into alternating current."
Used when referring to separate instances or processes of reconversion.
"Several reconversions of the building were completed during the year."
Reconversion puts the prefix re- to work: a direct-current supply can be reconverted into alternating current, reversing the usual direction of electrical conversion.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does reconversion come from?
The word combines the Latin prefix re-, meaning “again,” with conversion, which comes from Latin conversio, a turning or changing. The underlying Latin verb convertere means “to turn” or “to change.” The same root also produced English forms such as convert, converter, convertible, and converse.
Related word forms
How reconversion is actually used
The word is relatively uncommon in everyday speech and is most often used in technical, economic, or institutional contexts. In electrical engineering, it may describe changing direct current back into alternating current.
Easily confused with reconversion
Conversion means changing something into a different form, whereas reconversion means changing it back again.