refashion: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low frequency (C1/C2)Formal, somewhat literary; common in academic, business, and design/arts contexts.
Quick answer
What does “refashion” mean?
To remake, reshape, or reconstruct something, especially in order to improve its form, style, or function.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To remake, reshape, or reconstruct something, especially in order to improve its form, style, or function.
To adapt, revise, or repurpose an existing idea, concept, system, or narrative to better fit a new context or purpose.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is virtually identical in both varieties. No significant differences in meaning, frequency, or application.
Connotations
Slightly more formal/literary in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both BrE and AmE.
Grammar
How to Use “refashion” in a Sentence
[Subject] refashioned [Object][Subject] refashioned [Object] into [New Form][Subject] refashioned [Object] from [Source Material]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “refashion” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The brand sought to refashion its image after the scandal.
- She decided to refashion the old curtains into cushion covers.
American English
- The company refashioned its marketing strategy for the digital age.
- He refashioned the classic novel into a modern screenplay.
adverb
British English
- Not commonly used as an adverb.
American English
- Not commonly used as an adverb.
adjective
British English
- The refashioned policy received broad support.
- A refashioned vintage gown was the highlight of the show.
American English
- The refashioned regulations were more business-friendly.
- She wore a beautifully refashioned denim jacket.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used when discussing rebranding, restructuring a company, or overhauling a strategy.
Academic
Common in humanities and social sciences when discussing the reinterpretation of theories, historical narratives, or cultural texts.
Everyday
Rare in casual conversation; might be used in contexts of upcycling clothes or home renovation.
Technical
Used in design, fashion, and architecture to denote the creative reworking of an existing form or structure.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “refashion”
- Using 'refashion' for simple repairs. (Incorrect: 'I need to refashion this torn shirt.')
- Confusing it with 'rehash' (which has a negative connotation of unoriginal repetition).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. It is a specific type of change that involves creatively reshaping or remaking something that already exists, often with an emphasis on style, form, or conceptual structure.
Yes, very commonly. It is frequently used with abstract nouns like 'policy', 'narrative', 'image', 'identity', and 'ideas'.
'Remake' is more general and can mean to make again identically. 'Refashion' strongly implies altering the form, style, or purpose during the process of remaking.
Yes, the gerund/noun form 'refashioning' is common, especially in academic and critical writing (e.g., 'the refashioning of gender roles in the 20th century').
To remake, reshape, or reconstruct something, especially in order to improve its form, style, or function.
Refashion is usually formal, somewhat literary; common in academic, business, and design/arts contexts. in register.
Refashion: in British English it is pronounced /ˌriːˈfæʃ.ən/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌriˈfæʃ.ən/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None specific to this verb.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a FASHION designer taking an old dress (RE-) and turning it into a new, fashionable item. RE + FASHION = to fashion again.
Conceptual Metaphor
IDEAS ARE OBJECTS THAT CAN BE RESHAPED; IDENTITY IS CLOTHING THAT CAN BE REMADE.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'refashion' LEAST appropriate?