Reawaken Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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reawaken

[ˌriː.əˈweɪ.kən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

feeling

To awaken or revive something that was previously asleep or inactive.

Synonyms

awaken, rekindle, revive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
reawaken

Used when something that was once active or felt is being brought back to consciousness or attention after a period of dormancy.

  • The new book reawakened his love for mystery novels.
  • The trip to their childhood hometown reawakened old memories.
awaken

Typically describes the act of waking up from sleep or bringing someone or something into awareness for the first time.

  • The loud noise outside awakened her from a deep sleep.
  • His talk on climate change awakened a sense of urgency in the audience.
revive

Generally refers to bringing someone or something back to life, consciousness, or a more active state, especially after a period of decline or inactivity.

  • The paramedics were able to revive the man who had collapsed.
  • Efforts were made to revive the old theater and turn it into a community center.
rekindle

Often used in the context of reviving emotions, relationships, or passions that have diminished over time.

  • Their romantic dinner rekindled their love for each other.
  • She tried to rekindle her interest in painting by taking a new art class.

Examples of usage

  • The sound of the alarm clock reawakened her from a deep sleep.
  • The smell of fresh coffee reawakened memories of her childhood.
Context #2 | Verb

emotion

To awaken or revive a feeling, interest, or idea that was dormant or forgotten.

Synonyms

reignite, rekindle, revive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
reawaken

This word is best used when talking about feelings, memories, or desires that have been dormant and are brought back to life.

  • The old photographs reawakened memories of her childhood
  • The music reawakened his passion for playing the piano
revive

Appropriate for situations where something is brought back to health, strength, or activity after a period of decline or inactivity. It is commonly found in both literal and figurative uses.

  • The paramedics worked quickly to revive the unconscious man
  • The company is trying to revive its fortunes through a new marketing campaign
reignite

Use this word when referring to the resurgence of things like interest, debate, or conflict. It is often used with something that involves a flame or spark metaphorically.

  • The new evidence reignited the debate over the verdict
  • Their success reignited his interest in the project
rekindle

This word is suitable for emotional or romantic contexts, particularly when suggesting returning warmth or intimacy in a relationship.

  • The weekend getaway helped them rekindle their romance
  • They tried to rekindle their old friendship after many years

Examples of usage

  • The movie reawakened his passion for filmmaking.
  • The song lyrics reawakened memories of his first love.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In poetry and novels, 'reawaken' often symbolizes the return of hope, love, or passion after a period of stagnation.
  • Classic works, such as Shakespeare's sonnets, use similar themes to show characters finding new inspiration or love after despair.

Psychology

  • The term relates to personal growth; individuals often 'reawaken' their motivation or dreams after setbacks.
  • Therapists encourage clients to 'reawaken' their passions through mindfulness and self-reflection techniques.

Cultural Significance

  • Many spiritual traditions talk about 'reawakening' consciousness, suggesting an expanded awareness of self and surrounding world.
  • In various cultures, festivals celebrate the 'reawakening' of nature, such as spring equinox celebrations that symbolize renewal.

Pop Culture

  • Movies often depict characters who must 'reawaken' to their purpose or true identity, such as in adventure or fantasy films.
  • Songs frequently use the concept of 'reawakening' emotions or connections to convey themes of love and reconciliation.

Origin of 'reawaken'

Main points about word origin

  • The prefix 're-' means 'again,' while 'awaken' comes from Old English 'awacnian,' meaning to wake up.
  • The concept has been used in English literature since the early 1500s, highlighting the idea of coming back to life or realizing something anew.

The word 'reawaken' is a combination of the prefix 're-' meaning 'again' or 'back' and the verb 'awaken'. The concept of reawakening emphasizes the idea of restoring consciousness or awareness that had previously existed. The term has been used in English language to describe the act of reviving something from a state of dormancy or inactivity. The history of 'reawaken' dates back to Middle English and has evolved to become a commonly used word in contemporary language.


See also: unawakened.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,437, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.