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Recycle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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recycle

[ˌriːˈsaɪkl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

environment

Convert (waste) into reusable material. To treat or process (used or waste materials) so as to make suitable for reuse. To return (material) to a previous stage in a cyclic process.

Synonyms

reclaim, reprocess, reutilize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
recycle

This is commonly used when talking about converting waste materials into new materials and objects. It is often associated with environmental conservation.

  • People should recycle their plastic bottles to reduce pollution
reclaim

Used when you mean to recover or take back something that was lost or wasted, often involving a process of transformation or purification.

  • The company is trying to reclaim contaminated land for new housing projects
reprocess

Typically used in industrial or manufacturing settings, this word means to subject something to a special process again, especially to change it back into a usable form.

  • Nuclear fuel can be reprocessed to extract usable materials
reutilize

Less common, it refers to finding a new use for something that has already been used, emphasizing the idea of using it again rather than just recycling it.

  • We can reutilize these old containers for storage instead of buying new ones

Examples of usage

  • Recycling paper helps to save trees.
  • Many companies are now recycling their waste products.
  • The company recycles plastic bottles to make new containers.
Context #2 | Noun

environment

The action or process of converting waste into reusable material. The practice of reusing items or materials rather than throwing them away. The process of returning materials to a previous stage in a cyclic process.

Synonyms

reclamation, reprocessing, reutilization.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
recycle

This term is most commonly used in everyday language and refers to the process of converting waste into reusable material. It's often associated with eco-friendly practices.

  • We need to recycle our plastic bottles to reduce waste
  • The community has a recycling program for paper and glass
reclamation

Reclamation is typically used in more formal or technical settings and refers to the process of retrieving or recovering resources from waste, often implying the restoration of land or materials to a useful state.

  • The reclamation of mining sites is essential for environmental health
  • Water reclamation helps in converting wastewater into drinkable water
reutilization

Reutilization refers to the act of using something again rather than discarding it. This term is less common but can be found in both everyday and technical language.

  • The reutilization of old furniture can save money and reduce waste
  • Reutilization initiatives aim to extend the life of products and materials
reprocessing

Reprocessing is used mainly in industrial or scientific contexts, referring to the process of treating used materials to extract useful substances or to make them reusable.

  • Nuclear fuel reprocessing is a complex and sensitive task
  • Reprocessing factories handle a variety of chemical wastes

Examples of usage

  • Recycling is an important way to reduce waste.
  • She is a strong advocate for recycling.
  • The city has implemented a recycling program to help the environment.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Environmental Impact

  • Recycling helps conserve natural resources by reducing the need to extract raw materials from the earth.
  • It significantly reduces pollution, saving energy compared to producing new items from raw resources.
  • Global recycling efforts can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to the fight against climate change.

Pop Culture

  • Many films, like 'Wall-E', highlight the importance of recycling and managing waste, presenting a vision of a cleaner planet.
  • Popular brands often use recycling themes in advertisements to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.
  • In fashion, designers have created lines using recycled materials, promoting sustainability in the industry.

Science

  • Recycling materials like paper can save 17 trees for every ton processed, showcasing the benefits to forests.
  • Certain plastics can be recycled multiple times without degrading, making them valuable in sustainability efforts.
  • The recycling of metals uses 95% less energy than producing new metal from ore, highlighting efficiency benefits.

Community Impact

  • Community programs often organize recycling days to teach residents about waste management and get them involved.
  • Many schools have implemented recycling programs, educating the next generation about the importance of reusing materials.
  • Neighborhood clean-up initiatives often include recycling efforts, fostering community spirit and responsibility towards the environment.

Origin of 'recycle'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originated from the Latin root 'cyclus', meaning circle, which refers to repeating cycles of use.
  • First used in the context of waste management in the mid-20th century as societies began to worry more about pollution.
  • The modern recycling movement was significantly influenced by the 1970 Earth Day, marking a rise in environmental awareness.

The word 'recycle' originated in the 1920s from the prefix 're-' meaning again and the verb 'cycle', forming the concept of cycling or repeating a process. The modern environmental movement popularized the term in the mid-20th century as a way to promote sustainable practices and reduce waste. Recycling has since become a key aspect of environmental protection and resource conservation efforts worldwide.

See also: bicycle, cycle, cycles, cyclic, cyclical, cycling, cyclist, upcycle.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,327, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.