reinvent

[ ree-in-vent ]

verb (used with object)

1. to invent again or anew, especially without knowing that the invention already exists.
2. to remake or make over, as in a different form:

   At 60, he reinvented himself as a volunteer. We have an opportunity to reinvent government.

3. to bring back; revive:

   to reinvent trust and accountability.

reinvent

/ ˌriːɪnˈvɛnt /

verb

1. to replace (a product, etc) with an entirely new version
2. to duplicate (something that already exists) in what is therefore a wasted effort (esp in the phrase reinvent the wheel )

Other Words From

• rein·vention noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of reinvent¹

First recorded in 1685–90; re- + invent

Example Sentences

The British vehicle maker, owned by Tata Motors, will launch three new electric cars in 2026, having taken new cars off sale more than a year ago to focus on reinventing the brand.

From BBC

“We’re not trying to reinvent the wheel or anything like that.”

From Los Angeles Times

It would be a shame to rob a reader of the experience of watching Kapadia shed her film’s skin, reinventing in an entirely new register.

From Los Angeles Times

A decade later, Clinton proposed a review to “reinvent government,” later creating the National Partnership for Reinventing Government.

From Los Angeles Times

The late Quincy Jones’ life spanned the entirety of modern American pop music — a tradition he absorbed, influenced and reinvented for generations.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• remake
• revive