revival

[ ri-vahy-vuhl ]

noun

1. restoration to life, consciousness, vigor, strength, etc.
2. restoration to use, acceptance, or currency:

   the revival of old customs.

3. a new production of an old play.
4. a showing of an old motion picture.
5. an awakening, in a church or community, of interest in and care for matters relating to personal religion.
6. an evangelistic service or a series of services for the purpose of effecting a religious awakening:

   to hold a revival.

7. the act of reviving.
8. the state of being revived.
9. Law. the reestablishment of legal force and effect.

revival

/ rɪˈvaɪvəl /

noun

1. the act or an instance of reviving or the state of being revived
2. an instance of returning to life or consciousness; restoration of vigour or vitality
3. a renewed use, acceptance of, or interest in (past customs, styles, etc)

   the Gothic revival

   a revival of learning

4. a new production of a play that has not been recently performed
5. a reawakening of faith or renewal of commitment to religion
6. an evangelistic meeting or service intended to effect such a reawakening in those present
7. the re-establishment of legal validity, as of a judgment, contract, etc

revival

1. In Christianity , an energetic meeting intended to “revive” religious faith. Common among fundamentalists, these meetings are characterized by impassioned preaching and singing.

Other Words From

• nonre·vival noun
• prere·vival noun adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of revival¹

First recorded in 1645–55; revive + -al ²

Example Sentences

Director Sam Pinkleton turns up the party volume in a revival that sometimes allows the comic ambiance to get the better of its emotional through line.

From Los Angeles Times

Often credited as sparking an ’80s revival in fashion, his voluminous, one-of-a-kind party dresses come to life through a combination of contrasting thrifted fabrics like denim, taffeta, chiffon, leather and lace.

From Los Angeles Times

The Rev Hector Morrison, who is from Lewis and is principal of Highland Theological College UHI, said one reason for the longevity of Lewis and Harris' Sunday traditions were evangelical revivals.

From BBC

Hand-to-hand sales enjoyed a brief revival, but more so in small towns and rural areas.

From Salon

The New Jersey’s band first of five sold-out shows at the Forum marked a long-awaited return in the midst of an emo revival of sorts.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• recovery
• rejuvenation
• renaissance
• renewal
• restoration
• resurgence
• resurrection
• revitalization