What does redefinition mean?
Redefinition is the act of giving a word, term, or concept a new meaning, explanation, or scope, usually in response to changed circumstances or a new way of thinking. It is especially common in academic, legal, political, and cultural discussion, where established categories may need to be revised as knowledge evolves. Unlike a clarification, which makes an existing meaning easier to understand, a redefinition can alter the boundary of what the term denotes. For example, technological change has led to repeated redefinitions of privacy, work, and education. The word can also refer to the result of this process: a proposed redefinition of success might shift attention from status and wealth to personal fulfillment. Because it implies revision rather than simple explanation, redefinition often carries an intellectual or controversial tone.
nounA new definition or explanation of a word, term, or concept, especially one that replaces or revises an earlier understanding. The word often implies a deliberate change in how something is understood rather than merely a synonym or clarification.
- The act or result of defining a word, term, or concept again, especially in a way that changes or revises its previous meaning.
- A new meaning or explanation given to an existing word, term, or concept.
"The court's ruling marked a significant redefinition of privacy in the digital age."
"The amendment introduced a redefinition of what counted as an eligible applicant."
"Her latest book offers a provocative redefinition of success."
"The phrase has undergone a redefinition as its social and political context has changed."
The standard plural is “redefinitions,” for example when referring to several changes in the meaning of a term.
"The committee debated several proposed redefinitions of the term."
A redefinition does not merely explain a word better; it changes the word's intellectual address.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does redefinition come from?
Redefinition was formed in English by combining the prefix re-, meaning “again,” with definition. The underlying term comes through Middle English from Latin definitio, a noun derived from definere, meaning “to set forth, define, or determine.” Related English forms include define, definable, and definitional. The prefix re- has long been used in English to indicate repetition or a fresh application to something already established.
How redefinition is actually used
Common in formal, analytical, and academic contexts. It often suggests that an established meaning is being replaced or substantially reinterpreted, rather than simply made clearer.
Easily confused with redefinition
A redefinition changes the meaning or interpretation of a word or concept, whereas a reformulation expresses the same idea in different words.
A clarification explains an existing meaning more precisely, while a redefinition replaces or substantially revises that meaning.