Retool Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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retool

[หŒriหหˆtuหl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

business application

To retool means to change or adapt something, usually an operation or process, by replacing or modifying its components or resources. This term is commonly used in manufacturing and technology, where it can refer to updating machinery or software to improve efficiency or productivity.

Synonyms

adjust, modify, reconfigure, revamp.

Examples of usage

  • The company had to retool its production line to meet the new safety standards.
  • After the merger, they decided to retool their marketing strategy.
  • We need to retool our approach to customer service.
  • The software was retooled to enhance user experience.

Translations

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Origin of 'retool'

The term 'retool' originated from the combination of the prefix 're-' indicating 'again' or 'back' and the noun 'tool,' which refers to implements used to carry out a particular function. The concept of retooling has its roots in manufacturing, particularly during the Industrial Revolution when machinery was frequently updated to improve productivity. As industries evolved, the term began to encompass broader applications, including business strategies and software development, reflecting the necessity of adapting to new challenges and technologies. By the late 20th century, retooling became a common term in various sectors, symbolizing the ongoing need for innovation and flexibility in a rapidly changing market.