rectify

[ rek-tuh-fahy ]

verb (used with object)

, rec·ti·fied, rec·ti·fy·ing.

1. to make, put, or set right; remedy; correct:

   He sent them a check to rectify his account.

   Synonyms: amend, emend, mend

   Antonyms: muddle, worsen

2. to put right by adjustment or calculation, as an instrument or a course at sea.

   Synonyms: straighten, regulate, adjust

3. Chemistry. to purify (especially a spirit or liquor) by repeated distillation.
4. Electricity. to change (an alternating current) into a direct current.
5. to determine the length of (a curve).
6. Astronomy, Geography. to adjust (a globe) for the solution of any proposed problem.

rectify

/ ˈrɛktɪˌfaɪ /

verb

1. to put right; correct; remedy
2. to separate (a substance) from a mixture or refine (a substance) by fractional distillation
3. to convert (alternating current) into direct current
4. maths to determine the length of (a curve)
5. to cause (an object) to assume a linear motion or characteristic

Derived Forms

• ˌrectifiˈcation, noun
• ˈrectiˌfiable, adjective

Other Words From

• self-rec·ti·fy·ing adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of rectify¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English rectifien, from Middle French rectifier, from Medieval Latin rēctificāre, from Latin rēct(us) “right, straight” + -ificāre -ify; right

Word History and Origins

Origin of rectify¹

C14: via Old French from Medieval Latin rectificāre to adjust, from Latin rectus straight + facere to make

Example Sentences

They added any measures fitted under government schemes must be done by a Trustmark-registered installer "to the highest standards with issues promptly and properly rectified".

From BBC

“This would have given Air India the time and chance to rectify the mother brand and bring it up to the Vistara level, while maintaining its uniqueness,” he adds.

From BBC

The first lull was rectified quickly, with the Dodgers turning a tied score in the third inning into a comfortable lead with back-to-back home runs from Teoscar Hernández and Freddie Freeman.

From Los Angeles Times

The first two years covers the builder warranty period, in which the builder is responsible for rectifying problems arising from their failure to meet requirements.

From BBC

They say this would "rectify unfairness in the tax system, where working people are subject to proportionately higher rates of tax", and raise £16.7bn per year.

From BBC

Related Words

• amend
• fix
• improve
• redress
• remedy
• straighten out