recycle

[ ree-sahy-kuhl ]

verb (used with object)

, re·cy·cled, re·cy·cling.

1. to treat or process (used or waste materials) so as to make suitable for reuse:

   recycling paper to save trees.

2. to alter or adapt for new use without changing the essential form or nature of:

   The old factory is being recycled as a theater.

3. to use again in the original form or with minimal alteration:

   The governor recycled some speeches from his early days.

4. to cause to pass through a cycle again:

   to recycle laundry through a washing machine.

verb (used without object)

, re·cy·cled, re·cy·cling.

1. to pass through a cycle again; repeat a process from the beginning.
2. to undergo reuse or renewal; be subject to or suitable for further use, activity, etc.:

   The industry will recycle and become profitable once more.

noun

1. the act or process of recycling.

recycle

/ riːˈsaɪkəl /

verb

1. to pass (a substance) through a system again for further treatment or use
2. to reclaim (packaging or products with a limited useful life) for further use
3. to institute a different cycle of processes or events in (a machine, system, etc)
4. to repeat (a series of operations)

noun

1. the repetition of a fixed sequence of events

Derived Forms

• reˈcyclable, adjectivenoun

Other Words From

• re·cycla·ble adjective
• re·cycla·bili·ty noun
• re·cycler re·cyclist noun
• nonre·cycla·ble adjective
• unre·cycled adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of recycle¹

First recorded in 1925–30; re- + cycle

Example Sentences

Through this project, he said, the city will start using recycled water as a “new source of sustainable, drought-proof drinking water supply.”

From Los Angeles Times

Poppyscotland has produced two million for this year's appeal, and 50% of the material used is made from recycled coffee cups.

From BBC

And, if not a repeat, the 64-year-old might have picked up on some recycled storylines.

From BBC

I had figured by now the Lego-like set would have long been recycled, and that was that.

From Los Angeles Times

The eco Dome will be recycled and reused elsewhere after the ceremony.

From BBC

Related Words

• convert