rename: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Neutral to Formal (common in technical/administrative contexts)
Quick answer
What does “rename” mean?
To give something a new name.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To give something a new name.
To change the identifier of a file, folder, process, or entity in a computing or administrative system. Can imply redefining or repositioning something's identity.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical or grammatical differences. Spelling follows standard conventions: 'rename' in both. The word is equally common in both varieties.
Connotations
Neutral in both varieties, with slight administrative/technical formality.
Frequency
Equal frequency; a common term in computing and business contexts globally.
Grammar
How to Use “rename” in a Sentence
[Subject] + rename + [Direct Object] + [as] + [New Name][Subject] + rename + [Direct Object] + [New Name]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “rename” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The council will rename the square after the local hero.
- Right-click the file to rename it.
- After the scandal, they were forced to rename the product.
American English
- The city voted to rename the street.
- You can rename the folder in the dialog box.
- The company decided to rename its flagship store.
adverb
British English
- [Not a standard adverb for 'rename']
American English
- [Not a standard adverb for 'rename']
adjective
British English
- [Not a standard adjective for 'rename']
American English
- [Not a standard adjective for 'rename']
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used for rebranding companies, products, or projects. 'The board voted to rename the division to reflect its new focus.'
Academic
Used in historical or sociological discussions about place names or institutional names. 'The movement sought to rename buildings associated with controversial figures.'
Everyday
Common for files, pets, or social media profiles. 'I'll rename the document so it's easier to find.'
Technical
Core function in computing and database management. 'Use the command line to rename multiple files at once.'
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “rename”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “rename”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “rename”
- Incorrect: 'I will rename it to a new name.' (redundant) Correct: 'I will rename it.' or 'I will give it a new name.'
- Spelling error: 're-name' (hyphen is occasionally used but the solid form 'rename' is standard).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a regular verb: rename - renamed - renamed.
Yes, but it's formal or legal (e.g., renaming a child, an adult changing their name). In casual speech, 'change the name' is more common for people.
'Rename' focuses specifically on changing the name. 'Rebrand' is broader, involving a change to the name, logo, image, and marketing strategy.
The solid spelling 'rename' is the standard and most common form in modern English. The hyphenated form is sometimes seen but is considered less standard.
To give something a new name.
Rename is usually neutral to formal (common in technical/administrative contexts) in register.
Rename: in British English it is pronounced /ˌriːˈneɪm/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌriˈneɪm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms specifically with 'rename']”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: RE + NAME. You are giving something a name AGAIN.
Conceptual Metaphor
RENAMING IS REIDENTIFYING / RENAMING IS REBRANDING.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the verb 'rename' LEAST likely to be used?