English · Word Candidate

rebuild

/ɹiːˈbɪld/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: rebuilds · rebuilding · rebuilt

Sense 1

Meaning · English

To build again or anew.

Verb

Examples

The economics of rebuilding all the stations covered by the electrification would be prohibitive, but to help bring home to the Glasgow public that their North Clyde suburban service has been transformed, not merely re-equipped with new trains, stations have at least been associated psychologically

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

To attempt to improve one's performance during a period of struggling.

Verb

Examples

After missing the playoffs for the seventh straight season in a row, the Detroit Red Wings are trying to rebuild.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

A process or result of rebuilding.

Noun

Examples

Although the new features of the rebuilds were mainly the application of successful standard principles, the retention of the outside admission cylinders with their necessary high-pressure valve rod glands, of which the Southern lacked previous experience with an engine of this size, caused some une

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

(said of sports teams) A period during which an attempt is made to improve during a period of struggling.

Noun

Examples

Since they failed to make it to the playoffs after five consecutive seasons, the team has gone through a lengthy rebuild.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “rebuild” mean?

To build again or anew.

Is “rebuild” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.