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

Capitol Police have worked to ensure that Jan. 6 cannot recur.

From Los Angeles Times

That scenario is less likely to recur, thanks to a law Congress passed in 2022, making it harder to challenge electoral votes and clarifying that the vice president has no power to direct the outcome.

From Los Angeles Times

To see it recur via an organization dedicated to supporting Black journalists and journalism is infuriating.

From Salon

Malignant brain tumours often recur despite surgery and post-treatment with chemotherapy and radiation.

From Science Daily

The condition would recur in subsequent months and years, often requiring specialised surgery.

From BBC

Related Words

• persist
• reappear