What does retitling mean?
Retitling means changing a title, whether for a book, article, film, position, or similar entity. It can refer to a deliberate editorial revision that better reflects the subject, reflects a changed format or audience, or distinguishes a work from another. The word is especially associated with publishing, journalism, film, and media, although it can be used more broadly. As a verb, retitling emphasizes the change to the designation rather than any alteration to the underlying content; a book may be retitled while retaining the same text and story. As a noun, a retitling is the act of making such a change. Although it sounds administrative or editorial, the term may also describe a humorous or attention-grabbing change designed to improve a work's appeal. The prefix re- signals that a previous title is being replaced or revised.
The act or process of changing or revising the title of a work, role, or other subject.
"The retitling of the memoir prompted readers to reconsider its focus."
The noun is relatively uncommon and is most often used in editorial, publishing, and media contexts.
To change or revise the title of a work, role, or other subject.
"The studio retitled the documentary before releasing it internationally."
Used transitively; the direct object is the work, role, or subject whose title is being changed.
The plural is grammatically regular but rare, as the word is more often used in the singular or as a gerund.
"The editor discussed the retitlings of several classic novels."
Sometimes the story remains the same, but its title makes all the difference: retitling changes what readers are led to expect.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does retitling come from?
The word is formed from the prefix re-, meaning “again,” and the verb title, which means “to give a title to.” Title ultimately comes through Old French from Latin titulus, a word associated with a label, inscription, or heading. Modern retitling developed as a term for giving an existing work or subject a different title.
Related word forms
How retitling is actually used
Retitling is relatively formal and is especially common in publishing, entertainment, journalism, and institutional administration. As a verb, it is normally transitive and takes the thing being renamed as its object.
Easily confused with retitling
Retitling means changing a title, whereas retelling means narrating or presenting a story again.