Renaissance
/ˌrɛnəˈsɑːns/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe historical period in Europe, from the 14th to the 17th century, marking the transition from the Middle Ages to modernity and characterized by a revival of interest in classical art, architecture, literature, and learning.
/ˌrɛnəˈsɑːns/
A period of European history.
The Renaissance was a time of great artistic and intellectual achievements.
💡 Simply: Imagine a time when people got really interested in art, science, and learning again, like waking up after a long nap. That was the Renaissance! Think about the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. They were a renaissance of human characteristics.
👶 For kids: A time a long, long time ago when people started being interested in learning and art again!
More Examples
We studied the Renaissance in history class last week.
The Renaissance saw a flourishing of the arts and sciences.
How It's Used
"The Renaissance, a period of great cultural flourishing, began in Italy in the 14th century."
"Leonardo da Vinci epitomizes the artistic achievements of the Renaissance."
A revival or renewal of something that had declined or been dormant, such as a period of increased activity, interest, or prominence in a particular field.
/ˌrɛnəˈsɑːns/
A revival or renewal.
The town experienced a renaissance of its arts and culture.
💡 Simply: Imagine something that was old and maybe not so popular, but then it becomes popular again. Like a fashion trend or a type of music. Think about the return of vinyl records.
👶 For kids: When something gets popular and exciting again, like a cool toy that comes back!
More Examples
There has been a renaissance in the popularity of vinyl records.
The company's new management team led the business's renaissance.
How It's Used
"The company experienced a renaissance in its sales after the new marketing campaign."
"The city's downtown area is undergoing a cultural renaissance."
Idioms & expressions
Renaissance man
A person with many talents or areas of knowledge.
"Leonardo da Vinci is considered the quintessential Renaissance man."
From French *renaissance* ('rebirth'), derived from Italian *rinascita*, from *rinascere* ('to be reborn'), from *ri-* ('again') + *nascere* ('to be born'), tracing back to Latin *nasci*. The term refers to the period in European history marking the transition from the Middle Ages to modernity.
The term was initially used in 19th-century historical writings to describe the period of renewed interest in classical antiquity.
Memory tip
Think of it as the 'rebirth' of classical ideas after the 'dark ages'.
Word Origin
"to be born"