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Unregenerate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unregenerate

[ˌʌnˈrɛdʒɪnərɪt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

moral standpoint

Unregenerate refers to a person who is obstinately resistant to moral reformation or improvement. This term is often used to describe individuals who are set in their ways and refuse to change their views or behaviors, particularly in a moral or ethical context. It implies a stubbornness that prevents one from seeing the need for change or growth. The unregenerate individual may be viewed as unrepentant or even defiant regarding their actions or beliefs.

Synonyms

intractable, obstinate, stubborn, unyielding.

Examples of usage

  • He remained unregenerate despite numerous interventions.
  • Her unregenerate attitude toward her past mistakes was concerning.
  • Society cannot progress if individuals remain unregenerate.
  • The unregenerate nature of his decisions led to dire consequences.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • The concept often relates to debates about morality, where some argue that people can choose to remain unchanged despite having the capacity for growth.
  • Philosophers like Jean-Paul Sartre discussed existentialism, where individuals bear the responsibility for their choices but may choose to remain unregenerate.

Psychology

  • In psychological terms, unregenerate behaviors can be linked to a fear of change or an adherence to familiar patterns, which is often explored in therapeutic settings.
  • People may demonstrate unregenerate traits due to cognitive biases that reinforce their existing beliefs and behaviors, making change seem daunting.

Literature

  • Authors like Charles Dickens have used the term to describe characters who are set in their ways, often emphasizing the need for redemption or transformation.
  • This idea appears in various narratives where characters face moral challenges, reflecting the struggle between personal growth and stubbornness.

Pop Culture

  • In modern media, unregenerate characters often serve as antagonists, symbolizing resistance to positive change, as seen in many films and novels.
  • The term appears across various cultural critiques, discussing individuals who refuse to adapt to new societal norms or expectations.

Origin of 'unregenerate'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Latin 'regenerare', meaning to generate again or renew. The prefix 'un-' indicates the opposite.
  • In literature, it has been used since the 14th century to describe those resistant to change or repentance.

The term unregenerate is derived from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'regenerate', which comes from Latin 'regenerare'. The Latin 'regenerare' means 'to create again, restore', combining 're-' (again) and 'genus' (race, kind). It originally pertained to the religious or spiritual sense of being reborn or renewed. In English, 'unregenerate' has come to imply a refusal to undergo moral or spiritual renewal. First recorded in the early 19th century, the word carried connotations of moral inflexibility or obstinacy, especially in discussions regarding repentance and moral improvement. Over time, its usage expanded to describe anyone who is resistant or indifferent towards positive change.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,642, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.