First Known Use: circa 1522
Dictionary
renovate
verb ren·o·vate \ˈre-nə-ˌvāt\
: to make changes and repairs to (an old house, building, room, etc.) so that it is back in good condition
ren·o·vat·edren·o·vat·ing
Full Definition of RENOVATE
transitive verb
1
: to restore to a former better state (as by cleaning, repairing, or rebuilding)
2
: to restore to life, vigor, or activity : revive <the church was renovated by a new ecumenical spirit>
— ren·o·va·tion \ˌre-nə-ˈvā-shən\ noun
— ren·o·va·tive \ˈre-nə-ˌvā-tiv\ adjective
— ren·o·va·tor \-ˌvā-tər\ noun
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Origin of RENOVATE
Latin renovatus, past participle of renovare, from re- + novare to make new, from novus new — more at new
Synonym Discussion of RENOVATE
renew, restore, refresh, renovate, rejuvenate mean to make like new. renew implies a restoration of what had become faded or disintegrated so that it seems like new <efforts to renew the splendor of the old castle>. restore implies a return to an original state after depletion or loss <restored a fine piece of furniture>. refresh implies the supplying of something necessary to restore lost strength, animation, or power <a refreshing drink>. renovate suggests a renewing by cleansing, repairing, or rebuilding <the apartment has been entirely renovated>. rejuvenate suggests the restoration of youthful vigor, powers, or appearance <the change in jobs rejuvenated her spirits>.
Rhymes with RENOVATE
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RENOVATE Defined for Kids
renovate
verb ren·o·vate \ˈre-nə-ˌvāt\
ren·o·vat·edren·o·vat·ing
Definition of RENOVATE for Kids
: to put in good condition again <The entire house is being renovated.>
— ren·o·va·tor \-ˌvā-tər\ noun
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