Reset Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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reset

[rɪˈsɛt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

action

to set again or differently

Synonyms

reboot, reconfigure, restart.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
reset

To clear settings or return a device or system to its original state.

  • I need to reset my password because I forgot it.
  • You should reset the router to fix the connection issues.
reconfigure

To change the setup or settings of a system or device.

  • We need to reconfigure the network settings for better performance.
  • Reconfigure your email account to sync with the new server.
restart

To turn something off and then on again, often used for computers and electronic devices.

  • If the application crashes, try to restart it.
  • I had to restart my tablet to apply the changes.
reboot

To restart a computer or operating system to refresh the system without changing settings.

  • After the software update, you need to reboot your computer.
  • Reboot the phone to see if the problem gets fixed.

Examples of usage

  • I need to reset my password
  • Let's reset the alarm for 7am

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • In computing, pressing 'reset' on a device usually reboots it, clearing temporary issues to help it run smoothly again.
  • Many consumer electronics come with a physical reset button, allowing users to restore factory settings easily.
  • The 'reset' function is common in video games when players want to restart a level or the entire game experience.

Psychology

  • The concept of resetting can apply to mental health, as individuals may need to 'reset' their minds to cope better with stress.
  • Practices like meditation and mindfulness serve to help people reset their emotional state, providing clarity and calm.
  • Therapeutic techniques often encourage individuals to reset their negative thought patterns to promote a healthier mindset.

Pop Culture

  • The idea of a 'reset' is popular in movies and TV, often depicted as characters getting a second chance at life.
  • Many stories focus on a character's ability to go back in time or restart events, showing the allure of starting fresh.
  • In music, many songs deal with themes of 'resetting' relationships or personal lives after difficulties.

Education

  • In learning environments, educators often emphasize the importance of 'resetting' goals to keep students motivated.
  • Tools and platforms for online learning often have reset options enabling students to revisit past lessons or tests.
  • Encouraging a growth mindset often involves the idea of resetting expectations and embracing the learning process.

Origin of 'reset'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Middle English 'resetten', meaning to put back or restore.
  • In various forms, it has been a part of English since the 15th century, relating to setting things again.
  • Its roots can be traced to the prefix 're-', meaning 'again', combined with 'set', which means to place or adjust something.

The word 'reset' originated from the combination of 're-' meaning again and 'set'. It first appeared in the English language in the early 17th century.


See also: beset, offset, onset, preset, set, setback, setlist, settability, settee, setting, settings, settling, setup, subset, unset.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,236, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.