Revival Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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revival

[rɪˈvaɪ.vəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

cultural

Revival refers to the act of bringing something back to life, popularity, or use after a period of obscurity or decline. It often involves a renewed interest or enthusiasm for a particular art, style, or movement.

Synonyms

reawakening, renewal, resurgence.

Examples of usage

  • The revival of classical music among younger audiences is a positive sign for the future of the genre.
  • There has been a revival of interest in traditional crafts and techniques in recent years.
Context #2 | Noun

religious

Revival in a religious context refers to a series of religious services or gatherings aimed at reawakening or revitalizing the spiritual life of a community or individual believers. It often involves passionate preaching, heartfelt worship, and a focus on repentance and spiritual renewal.

Synonyms

awakening, reawakening, renewal.

Examples of usage

  • The church organized a revival to bring the congregation closer to God.
  • Many people experienced a personal revival of faith during the religious gathering.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term originates from the Latin word 'revivare', meaning 'to bring back to life'.
  • In the early 19th century, religious revivals sought to restore spiritual fervor in communities.
  • The revival movement also influenced social reforms, including abolitionism and temperance.
  • During the mid-20th century, art and culture experienced a revival after the devastation of World War II.

Cultural Significance

  • Revivalist music, like gospel, plays a key role in energizing congregations in religious settings.
  • The Harlem Renaissance was a revival of African American culture, emphasizing art and literature in the 1920s.
  • Modern revivals often see old trends, like vintage fashion, making comebacks, appealing to nostalgia.

Literature

  • Many classic works of literature, such as Shakespeare's plays, have experienced revivals through modern adaptations.
  • Current publishing trends often revisit themes from earlier centuries, attracting new readers to timeless stories.
  • The revival of poetry slams has reinvigorated spoken word, making poetry a vibrant form of performance art.

Psychology

  • In psychological terms, a revival can refer to the renewal of interest in activities that once brought joy or fulfillment.
  • Therapeutic practices often focus on reviving personal interests and passions as a form of healing.
  • The concept of peak experiences in psychology can lead to personal revivals, contributing to overall well-being.

Science

  • Revival in ecosystems, known as ecological restoration, helps bring back endangered species and habitats.
  • In medicine, revival may refer to the techniques used to resuscitate patients in critical situations.
  • Research on reviving extinct species, such as de-extinction projects, aims to bring back organisms that once disappeared.

Origin of 'revival'

The word 'revival' originated from the Latin word 'revivere', which means 'to live again'. It first appeared in the English language in the early 16th century. The concept of revival has been present in various aspects of human history, from cultural movements to religious awakenings. The idea of revival continues to be relevant today, symbolizing a rebirth or resurgence of something that was once fading or forgotten.


See also: revived.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,541 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.