What does reincarnating mean?
Reincarnating means undergoing a second birth: traditionally, the return of a person or soul to a new body after death, and, more broadly, the revival of an idea, place, or form in a new identity. The word often carries spiritual or philosophical associations with continuity between lives, although its figurative use is widely understood. For example, a historic building may be described as reincarnated when it becomes something culturally different while retaining a meaningful connection to its former use. In such contexts, reincarnating suggests more than simple renovation; it implies transformation and a second life. The expression is also common in discussions of religion, mythology, and ideas about consciousness. The related noun reincarnation names the belief or process itself, while the simpler verb reincarnate describes the act or process. Although the word can sound traditional or literary in careful discussion, it is widely understood and frequently used in journalism, cultural commentary, and everyday figurative speech.
verbTo undergo birth and life again, especially as a new form or identity after death. The word can also refer to the return of an idea, practice, or experience in a later life or period.
- To be born again into a new life or form after death.
- To undergo a complete revival or transformation in a new identity or setting.
- To reappear in a new form after an interval.
"The old theatre was beautifully reincarnated as a modern arts centre."
"Many Hindus believe that the soul is reincarnating in a new body after death."
"The abandoned warehouse was reincarnated as a thriving community centre."
From Latin, reincarnation means “a second clothing of flesh,” giving new life to the old idea of the soul entering a new body.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does reincarnating come from?
The word comes from Latin reincarnatio, a form of reincarnare meaning “to be clothed again in flesh.” The prefix re- indicates repetition, while incarnare derives from Latin caro, “flesh.” English borrowed the idea in the 16th century as reincarnation, and the verb form became established in the 17th century. Related English words include incarnation and the adjective incarnate, while the Latin root caro also underlies words such as carnivorous and carnal.
Related word forms
How reincarnating is actually used
In religious contexts, it commonly describes the soul or person returning to a new body after death. In modern figurative use, it often suggests a striking revival or transformation and can be slightly literary.