Regenerate
/rɪˈdʒenəreɪt/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo revive or restore to a better or more vigorous state, especially after loss or damage.
/rɪˈdʒenəreɪt/
To bring something back into existence, especially after it has been lost or damaged.
The forest began to regenerate after the wildfires.
💡 Simply: Imagine your favorite plant's leaves are all wilted. If you water it and the leaves become healthy and green again, you've helped the plant regenerate! It's like hitting the reset button on something that's been broken or damaged.
👶 For kids: To make something new again, like when a lizard grows a new tail!
More Examples
The new software will regenerate lost data.
Scientists are working to regenerate damaged tissues in humans.
How It's Used
"Certain types of lizards can regenerate a lost tail."
"The company plans to regenerate the city's downtown area with new shops and housing."
To cause (someone) to have a new and better character.
/rɪˈdʒenəreɪt/
To reform or improve someone morally or spiritually.
The experience helped to regenerate his faith.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone who used to make bad choices, but then they start making good choices and becoming a better person. That's like regenerating their spirit or character! They're becoming a better version of themselves.
👶 For kids: To become a better person and have a good heart.
More Examples
The program aimed to regenerate the youth by providing them with better opportunities.
Through reflection, he was able to regenerate his spirit.
How It's Used
"The priest hoped to regenerate the souls of the congregation through his sermons."
"The hero's journey often involves regenerating his moral character."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
Regenerate the economy
To revive or improve the financial health of a country or region.
"The government implemented policies to regenerate the economy after the recession."
From Latin regeneratus, past participle of regenerare 'to generate again, renew', from re- 'again' + generare 'to beget, produce'.
Historically used to describe both physical renewal (e.g., regrowth of body parts) and spiritual or moral renewal.
Memory tip
Think of 're-' (again) and 'generate' (create). To regenerate is to create again.