What does redecoration mean?
Redecoration means the act of decorating something again, usually in order to refresh its appearance or give it a new decorative scheme. It is commonly applied to houses, rooms, offices, galleries, and other interiors, where changing colours, furnishings, finishes, or ornamentation can transform the atmosphere without altering the underlying structure. The word can denote either the process itself or the resulting renewed decorative treatment. In everyday use, it often implies a more noticeable update than routine maintenance, though it remains less focused on structural alteration than renovation or refurbishment. For example, the redecoration of a living room might involve new paint, curtains, and artwork rather than changes to its walls or layout. Redecoration is also useful in historical and cultural contexts when describing how interiors have been renewed for a later period or adapted to contemporary taste.
nounThe act or process of decorating something again, typically with a fresh or updated appearance. It can also refer to the renewed decorative treatment itself.
- The act of decorating a room, building, or other space again or with a new decorative scheme.
"The redecoration of the old reading room gave it a brighter and more welcoming atmosphere."
"The redecoration of the kitchen was completed before the end of the summer."
"She viewed the gallery's redecoration as a striking contrast with its formal nineteenth-century interior."
The plural is used for separate acts or projects of redecorating or for distinct instances of renewed decorative treatment.
"The building has undergone several redecorations while preserving its original structure."
Adding re- changes the question from “What decoration?” to “What decoration is next?”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does redecoration come from?
The word combines the prefix re-, meaning “again,” with decoration. Decoration ultimately comes from Latin decorare, meaning “to adorn or embellish,” which is also the source of related English words such as decorative and decorator. Redecoration therefore literally refers to decoration that is renewed or repeated.
Related word forms
How redecoration is actually used
The word is neutral in register and is especially appropriate when the decorative aspect of a space is renewed without necessarily implying major structural work.
Easily confused with redecoration
Decoration refers to ornamental features or the act of adorning something, whereas redecoration specifically means decorating it again or replacing its existing decorative treatment.