rebuild
UK[ˌriːˈbɪld]US[ˌriˈbɪld]
v
To build something again after it has been damaged or destroyed.
v
To make something strong or successful again.
Morpheme Breakdown
re
build
re
again
build
construct
Etymology
The word 'rebuild' is a transparent compound formed within English. Its first element, the prefix 're-', descends from Latin, where it functioned as an intensive particle and later gained the sense of repetition or return. The core verb 'build' originates from the Old English 'byldan', meaning "to construct a dwelling," which itself is derived from 'bold', meaning "house." The literal, physical meaning of constructing something anew after its destruction remains primary. Over time, the logic of the morphemes extended metaphorically, allowing 'rebuild' to apply to abstract structures like relationships, economies, or lives, signifying the process of making them strong and functional once more.
Analysis
Structure: re (again) + build (construct)
re: Latin origin, a prefix meaning "again" or "back".
build: Old English origin (byldan), a verb meaning "to construct".
Examples
The community came together to rebuild the school after the fire.
After the scandal, the company spent years trying to rebuild its reputation.
He moved back to his hometown to rebuild his life.