recalibrate

[ ree-kal-uh-breyt ]

verb (used with or without object)

, re·cal·i·brat·ed, re·cal·i·brat·ing.

1. to correct or adjust the gradations or settings on (a measuring instrument, sensor, or other piece of precision equipment):

   If your battery fuel gauge is still inaccurate after following these steps, you may need to manually recalibrate the gauge.

2. to reexamine (one’s thinking, a plan, a system of values, etc.) and correct it in accord with a new understanding or purpose:

   This is a government that's out of touch and refusing to recalibrate after getting a clear message from voters.

Word History and Origins

Origin of recalibrate¹

re- ( def ) + calibrate ( def )

Example Sentences

It recalibrated its podcast strategy and laid off employees.

From Los Angeles Times

This was recalibrated when the team was rebranded as Alpine in 2021, and a new target to achieve the same aim was set - in 100 races’ time.

From BBC

Both sought to recalibrate their offices’ use of prosecutorial power by declining to charge youths as adults and refraining from seeking the maximum penalty in every case.

From Los Angeles Times

I’ve come to see this election as more than just a political contest — it’s an opportunity to recalibrate our democracy.

From Salon

The way you recalibrate Norman’s reactions is interesting.

From Salon

Related Words

• alter
• amend
• compare
• cut
• develop
• improve
• modify
• overhaul
• reconsider
• reexamine
• reorganize
• revamp
• review
• rework
• rewrite
• scrutinize
• tighten
• update
• upgrade