What does retype mean?
Retype is a verb meaning to type something a second time. It is commonly used when a document, form, message, or passage must be entered again, often because the original version was incomplete, incorrectly formatted, damaged, or lost. In everyday use, retype emphasizes the physical act of entering the words again rather than the content itself; a person may retype a letter without changing its wording. It is also useful in instructions related to offices, publishing, administration, and computer work. The word is neutral in tone and straightforward in meaning. Its formation is transparent: the prefix re- indicates repetition, while type refers to entering text with a keyboard or similar device. Although often perceived as a practical instruction, it can also suggest care and precision when a fresh copy is needed for record-keeping or distribution.
verbTo type something again, especially a document or text that has already been entered on a keyboard or computer.
- To type again text or a document, usually to replace or correct an earlier version.
"Please retype the final paragraph so that the formatting is correct."
"I had to retype the address because I made a mistake on the form."
"The editor asked me to retype the passage before it was added to the archive."
Retype is a useful example of how a simple prefix can specify a repeated action: re- means again, and type refers to entering text with a keyboard.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does retype come from?
Retype is formed in modern English from re-, meaning again, and type. Type ultimately comes through Old French from Latin typus, a borrowing of Greek typos, meaning a mark, impression, or model. The same ancient root also lies behind English words such as typical, typography, and typewriter, although retype itself is a modern formation expressing a repeated action.
Related word forms
How retype is actually used
Retype is generally neutral in register and is most often used for text, documents, forms, or messages. It usually implies entering existing wording again rather than creating a substantially new version.
Easily confused with retype
Retype means to type something again, whereas retire means to stop working, withdraw from an activity, or leave a place.