What does reformat mean?
Reformat means to give something a different format or arrangement. The word is commonly used for changing the layout of a document, presentation, image, or other material, and it can also describe converting content from one format to another, such as converting a file into a different type. In computing, reformatting a hard drive or other storage device means erasing its contents and preparing it for use again. The term is informal enough for everyday technical and office contexts but is also standard in formal descriptions of editing, publishing, and data management. Unlike reform, which implies improving or changing a wider system or practice, reformat focuses specifically on form, structure, or presentation.
To change the format, layout, or arrangement of something.
"The publisher reformatted the article for the website."
This is the ordinary editorial, publishing, and computing sense.
To erase and prepare a storage device for use again.
"We reformatted the laptop's hard drive before selling it."
This technical sense usually implies that the device's existing contents will be erased.
Reformat can mean changing the appearance of a document or completely resetting a storage device with one simple word.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does reformat come from?
Reformat combines the prefix re-, meaning again, with format, from Latin forma, meaning shape or form. The development reflects the original sense of giving something a new shape or arrangement. Format itself is related to information and transformation, while reform shares the same re- and form elements.
Related word forms
How reformat is actually used
In general writing, reformat usually refers to changing the layout or organization of text, images, or other material. In computing, it has the more technical sense of erasing and preparing a disk or storage device for reuse.
Easily confused with reformat
Reform means to improve or change an institution, system, or practice, whereas reformat specifically means to change the arrangement or technical layout of something.