reread
UK[ˌriːˈriːd]US[ˌriːˈriːd]
v
to read (something, such as a book, document, or email) again
Morpheme Breakdown
re
read
re
again
read
to look at and understand written words
Etymology
the verb 'reread' is a transparent modern english formation, combining a latin-derived prefix with a germanic root. the prefix 're-', from latin, has been productively attached to verbs of various origins in english since the middle english period to denote repetition or a return to a previous state. the core verb 'read' originates from the old english 'rǣdan', which carried a broader sense of advising or interpreting before specializing to its modern meaning. the compound 'reread' logically follows this pattern, literally meaning "to read again," a meaning that has remained consistent since its formation.
Analysis
Structure: re (again) + read (to look at and understand written words)
re: from latin 're-', meaning "again, back". it functions as a prefix indicating repetition.
read: from old english 'rǣdan', meaning "to advise, interpret, read". it functions as the core verb root.
Examples
i had to reread the paragraph several times to fully understand the complex argument.
she decided to reread her favorite novel from childhood.
before submitting the report, please reread it carefully for any errors.