born-again

[ bawrn-uh-genor, especially British, -uh-geyn ]

adjective

1. committed or recommitted to religious faith through an intensely religious experience:

   a born-again Christian.

2. reactivated or revitalized:

   a born-again conservatism in American politics.

3. enthusiastically committed:

   a born-again jogger.

noun

1. a person who is characterized by a newfound faith or enthusiasm.

born-again

/ ˈbɔːnəˌɡɛn /

adjective

1. having experienced conversion, esp to evangelical Christianity
2. showing the enthusiasm of one newly converted to any cause

   a born-again monetarist

noun

1. a person who shows fervent enthusiasm for a new-found cause, belief, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of born-again¹

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

Out at the born-again lake, Coyote the junk dealer has contributed three kayaks and a canoe for anyone who feels like paddling.

From Los Angeles Times

DeLorean became a born-again Christian and told Playboy that he had been the victim of his own “insatiable pride ... an arrogance that was beyond that of any other human being alive.”

From Los Angeles Times

Berkowitz has since expressed remorse and said he is a born-again Christian.

From Seattle Times

Her comedy may not be for everyone, though, like the family of her new boyfriend, whom she described as a born-again Christian.

From Los Angeles Times

It is also the hometown of Tim Dunn, a billionaire born-again evangelical who is among the state’s most influential political donors.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• doctrinal
• holy
• sacred
• sectarian
• theological