repurpose

American  

[ree-pur-puhs] / ˌriˈpɜr pəs /

verb (used with object)

repurposed, repurposing

1. to adapt or utilize (something) for a new purpose.

   The objective is to create affordable housing by repurposing abandoned commercial properties.

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Etymology

Origin of repurpose

First recorded in 1980–85; re- ( def. ) + purpose ( def. )

Example Sentences

The company is one of a handful of Nvidia-linked startups that are seeking to build a network of “open source” AI models, which businesses, labs and universities can use and repurpose according to their needs.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 26, 2026

Instead, it will repurpose some of them to help power microgrids for customers like AI-infrastructure firm Crusoe.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 28, 2026

Even in wealthy countries, recycling rates are often abysmal because plastic products can be expensive to repurpose and sorting rates are low.

From Barron's • Dec. 16, 2025

"The company has unveiled proposals to repurpose existing infrastructure and grid links at its Yorkshire power station to make its own contribution to the growth of AI," he said.

From BBC • Dec. 11, 2025

“I just remember the classic Roach Motel slogan that, apparently, the poster is attempting to repurpose for a Latinx audience. Catch you later, Kojo!”

From "The Smartest Kid in the Universe" by Chris Grabenstein

Related Words

• reuse