readjust
UK[ˌriːəˈdʒʌst]US[ˌriːəˈdʒʌst]
v
to change or move something slightly in order to improve its position, condition, or relationship with something else
v
to get used to a new or changed situation
Morpheme Breakdown
re
adjust
re
again
adjust
to arrange, adapt
Etymology
the word 'readjust' is a modern english formation, combining the latin-derived prefix 're-' with the verb 'adjust'. 'adjust' itself entered english from old french 'ajuster', which is based on vulgar latin 'adiuxtare', meaning 'to bring near', from latin 'ad' (to) and 'iuxta' (near). the prefix 're-' intensifies the core meaning, signifying the act of adjusting again or making a further alteration. thus, the literal sense of 'setting near again' evolved into the modern abstract meaning of making a minor change to return something to a proper state or to adapt to new circumstances.
Analysis
Structure: re (again) + adjust
- re: from latin 're-', meaning 'again' or 'back'. a prefix indicating repetition or restoration.
- adjust: from old french 'ajuster', meaning 'to arrange, adapt'. the core verb meaning to alter or move something to fit or function correctly.
Examples
after the move, it took us a few weeks to readjust to the new time zone.
the mechanic had to readjust the brakes to stop the squeaking noise.
she paused to readjust her glasses before continuing to read.