born-again
UK[ˌbɔːn əˈɡen]US[ˌbɔːrn əˈɡen]
adj
Having experienced a profound spiritual conversion or rebirth, especially in evangelical Christianity.
adj
Showing a renewed and passionate enthusiasm for a particular cause, belief, or activity.
Morpheme Breakdown
born
again
born
past participle of bear
again
once more
Etymology
The compound "born-again" is a modern English formation built from two ancient Germanic elements. "Born" derives from the Old English past participle of the verb "to bear," carrying the core sense of being brought into existence. "Again," from Old English, fundamentally means "back" or "anew." The phrase's literal meaning, "born anew," directly translates the Greek term "anagennēthe" found in the New Testament (John 3:3), where Jesus speaks of spiritual rebirth. Initially a theological term describing a specific evangelical conversion experience, its logic of starting fresh was extended metaphorically into secular contexts by the late 20th century to describe any fervent recommitment or revival of belief.
Analysis
Structure: born (past participle of bear) + again (once more)
- born: From Old English boren, past participle of beran (to bear, carry). Germanic origin.
- again: From Old English onġēan, ongægn (in return, back, opposite). Germanic origin.
Examples
He became a born-again Christian after a powerful personal experience.
She is a born-again environmentalist, having completely changed her lifestyle.
The company's CEO emerged as a born-again advocate for corporate transparency.