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restore

verb
re·​store | \ ri-ˈstȯr How to pronounce restore (audio) \
restored; restoring

Definition of restore

transitive verb

1 : give back, return
2 : to put or bring back into existence or use
3 : to bring back to or put back into a former or original state : renew
4 : to put again in possession of something
Other Words from restore Synonyms Choose the Right Synonym Example Sentences Learn More about restore

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Other Words from restore

restorer noun

Choose the Right Synonym for restore

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

Examples of restore in a Sentence

The police restored law and order. The government needs to restore confidence in the economy. an antique car that is being carefully restored
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Recent Examples on the Web

 After a day of blistering criticism from Republicans, Twitter has reversed an earlier decision and restored the campaign account of Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. — Timothy B. Lee, Ars Technica, "Twitter backs down, allows McConnell to post video of protestor threats," 9 Aug. 2019 One option is to restore forests that have been lost. — Umair Irfan, Vox, "Report: we have to change how we use land and produce food to fight climate change," 8 Aug. 2019 Meanwhile, improved forest management practices—like restoring forests and cracking down on deforestation—can improve carbon storage in places where forests already exist, without requiring additional land resources. — Chelsea Harvey, Scientific American, "To Halt Warming and Ensure Food Supplies, Land-Use Practices Must Change," 8 Aug. 2019 Ginger Graham’s project honors the city’s agricultural roots and maintains the structure’s historic charm, preserving the Linden Street façade, shoring up the iconic grain elevator and restoring architectural details. — Stacey Mckenna, The Know, "10 bars, restaurants and art spaces that give new life to historic buildings," 8 Aug. 2019 Warren wants the Federal Communications Commission to restore net neutrality and require more accurate and detailed reports from ISPs — another issue that’s been widely discussed among tech policy experts. — Adi Robertson, The Verge, "Elizabeth Warren proposes $85 billion grant for expanding rural internet access," 7 Aug. 2019 Out of all its projects, Laguna Beach Co. has so far prioritized restoring the historic Hotel Laguna on the corner of South Coast Highway and Laguna Avenue. — Daily Pilot, "Laguna Beach to recover all of its costs related to processing a slew of major developments," 7 Aug. 2019 In addition to enacting sensible laws, restoring the Founders’ original vision of the Second Amendment will require finding ways to bolster the resources of local communities. — Saul Cornell, The New Republic, "The Second-Amendment Case for Gun Control," 4 Aug. 2019 Now restored, visitors can explore the dusty brick underworld at this archeological site, including the palace’s former storage areas, kitchens, and even a medieval street, whose dirt ceiling was formerly open to the sky. — Meghan Miner Murray, National Geographic, "9 of Europe’s underground marvels," 2 Aug. 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'restore.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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First Known Use of restore

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

History and Etymology for restore

Middle English, from Anglo-French restorer, from Latin restaurare to renew, rebuild, alteration of instaurare to renew

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More Definitions for restore

restore

verb
How to pronounce restore (audio)

English Language Learners Definition of restore

: to give back (someone or something that was lost or taken) : to return (someone or something)
: to put or bring (something) back into existence or use
: to return (something) to an earlier or original condition by repairing it, cleaning it, etc.

See the full definition for restore in the English Language Learners Dictionary

restore

verb
re·​store | \ ri-ˈstȯr How to pronounce restore (audio) \
restored; restoring

Kids Definition of restore

1 : to put or bring back to an earlier or original state
2 : to put back into use or service Power has been restored.
3 : to give back Police restored the stolen car to its owner.

restore

transitive verb
re·​store | \ ri-ˈstō(ə)r, -ˈstȯ(ə)r How to pronounce restore (audio) \
restored; restoring

Medical Definition of restore

: to bring back to or put back into a former or original state a tooth restored with an inlay

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