Re: meaning, definitions and examples

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Re

 

[ riː ]

Prefix / Verb
Context #1 | Prefix

word formation

'Re-' is a prefix of Latin origin that means 'again' or 'back.' It is commonly used to indicate repetition of an action or a return to a previous state.

Synonyms

again, another, back

Examples of usage

  • Reread the document.
  • She's going to repaint the walls.
  • He decided to rewrite his paper.
Context #2 | Verb

audio response

To 're' is a term used in music and audio to refer to a specific note in the solfège scale. It signifies the second note of the diatonic scale.

Synonyms

note, tone

Examples of usage

  • Sing 'do, re, mi'.
  • The note 're' follows 'do'.

Etymology

The prefix 're-' comes from the Latin 're-', which means 'back' or 'again.' This prefix has been used in the English language since the Middle Ages, adapting various forms as the language evolved. The adoption of 're-' often reflected the action taken to revisit or repeat something, thus marking a significant linguistic development during the transition from Old English to Middle English. It is commonly seen in verbs where it indicates a return to a previous activity or state, such as 'restore' (to bring back) or 'remake' (to make again). The versatility of 're-' allows it to be used across a wide array of contexts, making it an essential part of English word formation.