recur

[ ri-kur ]

verb (used without object)

, re·curred, re·cur·ring.

1. to occur again, as an event, experience, etc.
2. to return to the mind:

   The idea kept recurring.

3. to come up again for consideration, as a question.
4. to have recourse.

recur

/ rɪˈkɜː /

verb

1. to happen again, esp at regular intervals
2. (of a thought, idea, etc) to come back to the mind
3. (of a problem, etc) to come up again
4. maths (of a digit or group of digits) to be repeated an infinite number of times at the end of a decimal fraction

Derived Forms

• reˈcurring, adjective
• reˈcurringly, adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of recur¹

1610–20; earlier: to recede < Latin recurrere to run back, equivalent to re- re- + currere to run

Word History and Origins

Origin of recur¹

C15: from Latin recurrere , from re- + currere to run

Example Sentences

There comes a point in “Conclave” where all hope is lost and a recurring refrain counsels the acceptance of a lesser evil.

From Salon

Milhouse van Houten has been a popular recurring character on the sitcom for the past 35 years, and is Bart Simpson's best friend.

From BBC

The willowy Australian set a record for most Sports Illustrated swimsuit covers and popped up in movies and TV shows, including a recurring role on “Friends,” before starting a wellness company.

From Los Angeles Times

Ongoing management is crucial to prevent the problem from recurring.

From Salon

His recurring suggestion to cut government spending by a nearly a third, or $2 trillion, is outdone only by Ramaswamy's own proposal to cut as much as 75% of the federal workforce.

From Salon

Related Words

• persist
• reappear