Recharge: meaning, definitions and examples

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recharge

[riːˈtʃɑːrdʒ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

mobile phone

To add credit or funds to a mobile phone account in order to make calls or use data services.

Synonyms

refill, reload, top up.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
recharge	Suitable for situations involving batteries, electronic devices, or energy for people. I need to recharge my phone. After a long week, I need to recharge my energy.
top up	Mostly used in British English for adding more credit to accounts, like mobile phones or public transport cards. I need to top up my Oyster card. She went to the store to top up her mobile minutes.
refill	Used when an empty container or object is being filled again, such as drinks, ink cartridges, or medication. Can you refill my water bottle? The printer's ink cartridge needs a refill.
reload	Commonly used for weapons, computer programs, or webpages. He had to reload the gun before continuing the game. Please reload the webpage to see the updated information.

Examples of usage

I need to recharge my phone before I can make any more calls.
Don't forget to recharge your data plan before going on your trip.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

energy

To restore a battery or power source to its full capacity by connecting it to an electrical source.

Synonyms

re-energize, reboost, replenish.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
recharge	Use 'recharge' when talking about restoring energy, typically in the context of electronic devices or personal energy levels after rest. I need to recharge my phone before the meeting. After a week of vacation, I feel completely recharged.
re-energize	Use 're-energize' when focusing on regaining energy or enthusiasm, often used in a motivational or wellness context. A quick walk in the park helped me re-energize for the rest of the day. The seminar was designed to re-energize the team.
replenish	Use 'replenish' when talking about refilling or restoring something to its previous level, often used with physical supplies or resources. We need to replenish the pantry before the party. She drank water to replenish the fluids she lost during the workout.
reboost	Use 'reboost' when emphasizing the act of giving a fresh boost or lift to something, which can include energy, morale, or performance. We need to reboost our marketing efforts to attract new customers. A good night's sleep reboosted her energy levels.

Examples of usage

Make sure to recharge your laptop overnight so it's ready for tomorrow.
The electric car needs to be recharged after a long drive.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word combines 're-' meaning 'again' and 'charge,' which comes from the Latin 'carria' meaning 'to load' or 'to burden'.
It first appeared in the English language in the early 19th century, primarily relating to batteries and energy.
Over time, the meaning expanded to include rest and recovery for both devices and people.

Science

In physics, 'charge' refers to the electrical property that causes particles to experience a force in an electric field.
Rechargeable batteries use chemical reactions to store energy that can be released when needed, unlike single-use batteries.
The process of recharging involves reversing the chemical reaction that occurred when the battery provided power.

Psychology

Taking time to recharge mentally contributes significantly to emotional well-being, reducing anxiety and improving focus.
Activities that promote mental recharge include meditation, nature walks, and hobbies that foster creativity.
Psychologists recommend regular breaks for busy individuals to avoid burnout and improve overall productivity.

Technology

The first rechargeable battery, the nickel-cadmium battery, was developed in the late 1890s.
Modern lithium-ion batteries, commonly found in smartphones and laptops, offer a more efficient recharge cycle and longer lifespan.
Wireless charging technology allows devices to recharge without physical connectors, using electromagnetic fields instead.

Cultural Impact

In popular culture, 'recharge' has become synonymous with taking time off work to focus on self-care.
The concept of 'digital detox' relates to recharging by reducing screen time to reset one's mental state.
Recharging is often used in motivational contexts to encourage people to take breaks for better performance and creativity.

Translations

Translations of the word "recharge" in other languages:

🇵🇹 recarregar

🇮🇳 रिचार्ज

🇩🇪 aufladen

🇮🇩 isi ulang

🇺🇦 перезаряджати

🇵🇱 doładować

🇯🇵 充電する (じゅうでんする)

🇫🇷 recharger

🇪🇸 recargar

🇹🇷 yeniden şarj etmek

🇰🇷 충전하다

🇸🇦 إعادة الشحن

🇨🇿 dobít

🇸🇰 dobíjať

🇨🇳 充值 (chōngzhí)

🇸🇮 napolniti

🇮🇸 endurnýja

🇰🇿 қайта зарядтау

🇬🇪 დატენვა

🇦🇿 yenidən doldurmaq

🇲🇽 recargar

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,561, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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14558 radiotherapy
14559 labyrinth
14560 traceable
14561 recharge
14562 jointed
14563 unsupported
14564 crumbs
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