reassert
UK[ˌriːəˈsɜːt]US[ˌriːəˈsɜːrt]
v
to state again, or to do something again to show that you still have power, control, or authority
v
to become important or noticeable again
Morpheme Breakdown
re
assert
re
again
assert
state firmly
Etymology
The verb 'reassert' is a relatively modern English formation, built upon the earlier verb 'assert', which entered English in the early 17th century from Latin. 'Assert' itself derives from 'asserere', meaning 'to claim or affirm', a compound of 'ad-' (to) and 'serere' (to join or attach), suggesting the act of attaching a claim to oneself. The addition of the productive prefix 're-', denoting repetition, creates a transparent meaning of stating a claim or position once more. Thus, the word's logic is straightforward: to 'assert again', whether it be an opinion, a right, or a dominant condition.
Analysis
Structure: re (again) + assert (state firmly)
re- (Latin, a prefix meaning 'again' or 'back'), assert (from Latin 'assertus', past participle of 'asserere', meaning 'to claim, affirm')
Examples
the prime minister moved quickly to reassert his authority.
she took a deep breath to reassert her composure before continuing.
traditional values have reasserted themselves in the community.