repurpose

verb

re·​pur·​pose (ˌ)rē-ˈpər-pəs How to pronounce repurpose (audio)
repurposed; repurposing; repurposes

transitive verb

: to give a new purpose or use to
repurpose the company's website
repurpose the archived material

Examples of repurpose in a Sentence

finding ways to repurpose old computer equipment
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In the late 1960s, Fauci helped lead a team at the National Institutes of Health that repurposed cancer therapies as cures for several once-fatal rheumatological conditions. — Katherine J. Wu, The Atlantic, 28 July 2026 The recycling effort comes as California mandates retailers offer a responsible way for worn textiles to be repurposed, instead of tossed into the trash. — Samantha Gowen, Oc Register, 27 July 2026 Along the Miami River, where commercial shipyards once serviced everything from fishing boats to cargo vessels, waterfront property is increasingly being repurposed for superyachts and luxury marinas. — Miami Herald, 25 July 2026 Drape a quilt over a chair or repurpose a vintage curtain into a pillow cover. — Ryan Brennan, Sacbee.com, 25 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for repurpose

Word History

First Known Use

1984, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of repurpose was in 1984

Rhymes for repurpose

See All Rhymes for repurpose

Browse Nearby Words

repurify
repurpose
reputability
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Repurpose.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/repurpose. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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