reinterpret

verb

re·​in·​ter·​pret ˌrē-ən-ˈtər-prət How to pronounce reinterpret (audio)
-pət
reinterpreted; reinterpreting; reinterprets

transitive verb

: to interpret again
specifically : to give a new or different interpretation to
reinterpretation
ˌrē-ən-ˌtər-prə-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce reinterpret (audio)
-pə-
noun

Examples of reinterpret in a Sentence

New information may force us to reinterpret the evidence. The director wants to reinterpret the old play for a modern audience.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This rooftop restaurant, 328 feet above Port de Sóller, reinterprets the fusion by blending Japanese precision and Peruvian creativity with fresh Mallorcan seafood and seasonal ingredients. — Rachel Dube, Forbes.com, 27 Aug. 2026 Davis described the residence as both a significant piece of San Francisco design history and an opportunity for a buyer to reinterpret it. — David Caraccio, Sacbee.com, 26 Aug. 2026 The architect’s duty is not merely to replicate things from the past, but to reinterpret them. — Jeffrey Dungan, Southern Living, 19 Aug. 2026 In addition, Valens’ music will be reinterpreted live by Chicano performers from Thee Sinseers, The Altons, Shannon and the Clams and The McCharmlys, among others. — Los Angeles Times, 18 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for reinterpret

Word History

First Known Use

1611, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of reinterpret was in 1611

Rhymes for reinterpret

See All Rhymes for reinterpret

Browse Nearby Words

reinter
reinterpret
reinterpretation
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Cite this Entry

“Reinterpret.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reinterpret. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

reinterpret

verb
re·​in·​ter·​pret ˌrē-ən-ˈtər-prət How to pronounce reinterpret (audio)
: to interpret again
especially : to give a new or different interpretation to
reinterpretation
-ˌtər-prə-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce reinterpret (audio)
noun
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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