rechristen
UK[ˌriːˈkrɪsən]US[ˌriːˈkrɪsən]
v
to give a new name to someone or something, especially in a formal ceremony.
v
to rename or call by a new name.
Morpheme Breakdown
re
christen
re
again
christen
to baptize or name
Etymology
the verb 'rechristen' is a transparent english formation, combining the latin-derived prefix 're-' with the verb 'christen'. the core verb 'christen' originates from old english cristnian, meaning "to make christian, to baptize," which itself is derived from latin christianus (christian). this latin term finds its ultimate source in greek christos, meaning "anointed one." the prefix 're-', from latin, consistently denotes "again" or "anew." therefore, the literal, morphemic logic of 'rechristen' is "to name or baptize again." while its early use was tied to the religious rite of baptism, its modern abstract meaning has broadened to any formal or significant act of renaming, retaining the ceremonial connotation of its root.
Analysis
Structure: re (again) + christen (to baptize or name)
- re: a prefix of latin origin, meaning "again" or "back". it functions as an intensifier or indicator of repetition.
- christen: a verb of old english origin (from latin christianus, and greek christos), meaning "to baptize" or "to name". it functions as the core lexical root.
Examples
the ship was rechristened the "spirit of adventure" after its extensive refurbishment.
after the merger, the company decided to rechristen its flagship product line.
the square was rechristened in honor of the national hero.