renaissance
UK[rɪˈneɪs(ə)ns]US[ˈrenəˌsɑːns]
n
A period of renewed interest and activity in a particular field, especially art, literature, or culture.
n
(the Renaissance) The period in European history, from the 14th to the 17th century, marking the transition from the Middle Ages to modernity, characterized by a revival of classical learning and wisdom.
Morpheme Breakdown
re
naiss
ance
re
again
naiss
born
ance
noun suffix
Etymology
The word 'renaissance' entered English in the 19th century from the French 'renaissance', meaning "rebirth." It is a direct compound of the French elements 're-' (again) and 'naissance' (birth), which itself derives from the Latin verb 'nasci' (to be born). The term was first used to describe the historical period of cultural and artistic revival in Europe, which was seen as a "rebirth" of classical antiquity's ideals and knowledge. This literal sense of being "born again" logically extends to its modern, generalized meaning for any significant revival or renewed flourishing of activity in a field.
Analysis
Structure: re (again) + naiss (born) + ance (noun suffix)
re: Latin origin, a prefix meaning "again" or "anew."
naiss: From the present participle stem of the Old French verb 'naistre' (to be born), itself from Latin 'nasci' (to be born).
ance: From Old French '-ance', a noun-forming suffix indicating an action, state, or quality, from Latin '-antia'.
Examples
The city experienced a cultural renaissance with the opening of new museums and theaters.
There has been a renaissance of interest in traditional crafts among young people.
The Harlem Renaissance was a pivotal movement in African American literature and art.