reincarnate: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

No. While its primary and most precise meaning is religious/philosophical, it is commonly used in a secular, metaphorical way to mean 'to revive or recreate something in a new form' (e.g., reincarnating a classic film).

'Reborn' is broader and more common. It can refer to spiritual rebirth (like in Christianity), personal renewal, or the revival of anything. 'Reincarnate' specifically implies a transition into a new physical body or form, maintaining a core identity or essence. 'Reborn' is often intransitive ('He was reborn'), while 'reincarnate' is often transitive ('He was reincarnated as...').

Very rarely. The standard noun is 'reincarnation'. Using 'reincarnate' as a noun (e.g., 'He is a reincarnate') is non-standard and archaic; use 'reincarnation' instead ('He is a reincarnation of...').

'As' is the most standard and neutral: 'reincarnated as a dog'. 'Into' is also acceptable, especially when emphasizing the process of transformation: 'reincarnated into a new body'. 'In' is generally considered incorrect for this verb.

to be reborn in a new body or form after death, especially in accordance with Hindu, Buddhist, or other spiritual beliefs.

Reincarnate is usually formal, philosophical, religious, literary, sometimes journalistic. in register.

Reincarnate: in British English it is pronounced /ˌriːɪnˈkɑːneɪt/ (verb), /ˌriːɪnˈkɑːnət/ (adjective), and in American English it is pronounced /ˌriːɪnˈkɑːrneɪt/ (verb), /ˌriːɪnˈkɑːrnət/ (adjective). Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.