Top 47 Slang For Reuse – Meaning & Usage

“Slang for reuse” may not be a term you hear every day, but in the world of sustainability and eco-conscious living, it’s becoming more and more prevalent. So, if you’re looking to up your green game and reduce waste, look no further. Our team has put together a compilation of the top slang for reuse that will not only educate you but also inspire you to make a positive impact on the environment. Get ready to dive into this list and become a reuse pro in no time!

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1. Repurpose

To take an item and use it for a different purpose than its original intention. It often involves modifying or transforming the item to fit its new function.

For example, “I repurposed an old ladder into a bookshelf.”
A DIY enthusiast might say, “I love repurposing old furniture into something unique.”
In a discussion about sustainability, someone might suggest, “Instead of throwing away old clothes, try repurposing them into cleaning rags.”

2. Upcycle

Similar to repurposing, upcycling involves taking an item and giving it a new life. However, upcycling specifically focuses on turning waste materials into something of higher quality or value.

For instance, “I upcycled glass bottles into beautiful vases.”
A crafter might say, “I love upcycling old magazines into colorful paper beads.”
In a discussion about reducing waste, someone might suggest, “Instead of throwing away old furniture, consider upcycling it into something new and useful.”

3. Refurbish

To renovate or repair an item, usually to restore it to its original condition or improve its functionality. Refurbishing often involves cleaning, fixing, and updating the item.

For example, “I refurbished an old chair by sanding and repainting it.”
A homeowner might say, “I’m planning to refurbish my kitchen cabinets to give them a fresh look.”
In a discussion about electronic devices, someone might mention, “Many people refurbish smartphones and sell them at a lower price.”

4. Recycle

To convert waste materials into new products or materials. Recycling typically involves breaking down the waste and transforming it into raw materials that can be used to create new items.

For instance, “I recycle plastic bottles into new containers.”
A sustainability advocate might say, “Recycling paper helps save trees and reduce landfill waste.”
In a discussion about environmental impact, someone might suggest, “Remember to recycle your old electronics instead of throwing them in the trash.”

5. Salvage

To recover or save usable parts or materials from something that is no longer in use or is about to be discarded. Salvaging involves extracting valuable components or resources to be repurposed or reused.

For example, “I salvaged wood from an old barn to build a new table.”
A DIY enthusiast might say, “I love salvaging old windows and turning them into picture frames.”
In a discussion about reducing waste, someone might suggest, “Before throwing something away, consider if any parts can be salvaged for future use.”

6. Revamp

To give something a new and improved look or design. “Revamp” is often used to describe the process of renovating or updating something to make it more modern or appealing.

For example, a fashion magazine might say, “Revamp your wardrobe with these trendy new pieces.”
A website designer might suggest, “Let’s revamp the homepage to make it more user-friendly.”
A homeowner might decide to revamp their kitchen by installing new cabinets and appliances.

7. Renew

To restore or revive something to its original state or condition. “Renew” often implies a sense of rejuvenation or starting anew.

For instance, a person might say, “I need to renew my driver’s license before it expires.”
A couple might decide to renew their wedding vows to celebrate a milestone anniversary.
A person might make a resolution to renew their commitment to a healthy lifestyle.

8. Regenerate

To restore or grow something back after it has been damaged or lost. “Regenerate” is often used in the context of healing or regrowth.

For example, a doctor might say, “The body has the ability to regenerate damaged tissues.”
A gardener might explain, “You can regenerate a plant by cutting off a healthy stem and planting it in soil.”
A person might say, “I need a vacation to regenerate my energy and motivation.”

9. Reclaim

To regain possession or control of something that was lost, stolen, or taken away. “Reclaim” often implies a sense of asserting ownership or reclaiming one’s rights.

For instance, a person might say, “I’m going to reclaim my personal space by decluttering and organizing.”
A community might reclaim an abandoned lot and turn it into a park.
A person might reclaim their identity after going through a transformative experience.

10. Resurrect

To revive or bring back something that was dead or no longer in existence. “Resurrect” often carries a sense of bringing back to life or restoring something that was lost.

For example, a person might say, “I’m going to resurrect my old blog and start writing again.”
A musician might resurrect a classic song by giving it a modern twist.
A company might resurrect a discontinued product due to popular demand.

11. Reutilize

To use an item or material again for a different purpose or in a different way. “Reutilize” is a term used to emphasize the act of repurposing or finding a new use for something that would otherwise be discarded.

For example, instead of throwing away old glass jars, you can reutilize them as storage containers for small items.
In a DIY project, someone might say, “I’m going to reutilize this old wooden pallet to make a coffee table.”
A sustainability advocate might encourage others to reutilize plastic bottles by turning them into planters.

12. Recondition

To restore or improve the condition of an item, often through repairing or cleaning. “Recondition” is a term used to describe the process of making something look and function like new again.

For instance, a car mechanic might recondition a used engine to ensure it runs smoothly.
In the context of electronics, someone might say, “I’m going to recondition this old laptop by replacing the battery and cleaning the internals.”
A vintage furniture collector might say, “I love finding old chairs and reconditioning them to their former glory.”

13. Reprocess

To treat or convert waste materials into reusable materials. “Reprocess” is a term used to describe the action of recycling and transforming discarded items or materials into new products.

For example, plastic bottles can be reprocessed and turned into new plastic products.
In a discussion about environmental sustainability, someone might say, “We need to invest in technologies that allow us to reprocess more of our waste.”
A recycling advocate might encourage others to separate their recyclables to ensure they can be properly reprocessed.

14. Reinvigorate

To give new energy, strength, or life to something. “Reinvigorate” is a term used to describe the act of refreshing or revitalizing something that has become dull or stagnant.

For instance, a company might reinvigorate its brand by launching a new marketing campaign.
In a conversation about personal goals, someone might say, “I’m going to reinvigorate my fitness routine by trying new workouts.”
A teacher might reinvigorate their classroom by introducing interactive activities and engaging lessons.

15. Rejuvenate

To make something feel fresh, young, or full of life again. “Rejuvenate” is a term used to describe the process of restoring or renewing something to a more youthful or vibrant state.

For example, a spa might offer treatments that claim to rejuvenate the skin.
In a discussion about mental health, someone might say, “Taking a vacation can be a great way to rejuvenate your mind and body.”
A gardener might rejuvenate a plant by pruning it and providing it with proper care.

16. Rekindle

To restart a relationship or connection that has faded or ended. It can also refer to reigniting a passion or interest in something.

For example, “They decided to rekindle their romance after being apart for years.”
A person might say, “I want to rekindle my love for painting and start creating art again.”
In a discussion about friendships, someone might mention, “It’s never too late to rekindle old friendships and reconnect with people from your past.”

17. Reawaken

To awaken or bring back to life something that has been dormant or inactive. It can also refer to rediscovering a feeling or emotion.

For instance, “The smell of fresh coffee always reawakens my senses in the morning.”
A person might say, “Traveling to new places always reawakens my curiosity and sense of adventure.”
In a discussion about personal growth, someone might mention, “I’m trying to reawaken my creativity and pursue my artistic passions again.”

18. Reestablish

To restore or bring back something that has been lost, broken, or disrupted. It can also refer to restoring a relationship or connection that has been severed.

For example, “They worked hard to reestablish their business after a setback.”
A person might say, “I want to reestablish a healthy work-life balance and prioritize my well-being.”
In a discussion about diplomacy, someone might mention, “They are working to reestablish diplomatic relations between the two countries.”

19. Reintroduce

To bring back or introduce something again, especially after a period of absence or removal. It can also refer to reintroducing a person or idea into a social setting.

For instance, “The company decided to reintroduce their popular product after making improvements.”
A person might say, “I want to reintroduce healthier habits into my daily routine.”
In a discussion about education, someone might mention, “We should reintroduce arts and music programs into schools to foster creativity.”

20. Reinstate

To restore or bring back someone or something to a previous position, status, or condition. It can also refer to restoring a law, policy, or rule that was previously in effect.

For example, “The employee was reinstated after being wrongfully terminated.”
A person might say, “I want to reinstate a regular exercise routine to improve my fitness.”
In a discussion about government, someone might mention, “They are pushing to reinstate stricter regulations to protect the environment.”

21. Reuse

The act of using an item or material again instead of throwing it away. “Reuse” is often used in the context of reducing waste and promoting sustainability.

For example, “Instead of buying new clothes, I try to reuse old ones by upcycling them.”
A person discussing environmental conservation might say, “We need to prioritize reuse over single-use items.”
In a DIY project, someone might share, “I found a creative way to reuse glass jars as storage containers.”

22. Reimagine

To envision or conceive something in a new or different way. “Reimagine” often implies a fresh perspective or a creative approach to a particular concept or idea.

For instance, “Let’s reimagine the traditional classroom and create a more interactive learning environment.”
In the world of fashion, someone might say, “I want to reimagine how we define beauty and challenge conventional standards.”
A person discussing urban planning might propose, “We should reimagine our cities to be more pedestrian-friendly and sustainable.”

23. Reconstruct

To build or create something again, often after it has been damaged or destroyed. “Reconstruct” implies the process of restoring or remaking something that was previously existing.

For example, “After the fire, the homeowners had to reconstruct their entire house.”
In a historical context, someone might say, “Archaeologists are working to reconstruct the ancient city based on the ruins.”
A person discussing personal growth might share, “I had to reconstruct my life after going through a difficult period.”

24. Reassemble

To bring together the separate parts of something to form a whole again. “Reassemble” is often used in the context of disassembling and then putting the pieces back together.

For instance, “After cleaning the engine, I need to reassemble all the parts.”
In a discussion about furniture, someone might say, “I bought a flat-pack bookshelf and now I need to reassemble it.”
A person discussing a puzzle might mention, “It took me hours to reassemble the jigsaw puzzle.”

25. Reacquire

To obtain or get back something that was previously owned or possessed. “Reacquire” implies the process of retrieving or recovering something that was lost or given up.

For example, “The company is planning to reacquire its former headquarters.”
In a discussion about personal belongings, someone might say, “I need to reacquire the book I lent to my friend.”
A person discussing financial investments might share, “I sold my stocks last year, but now I’m considering reacquiring them.”

26. Reapply

This term refers to the act of applying or submitting something for consideration or use once more. It is often used when referring to submitting an application or reusing a product or material.

For example, a person might say, “I need to reapply for that job because I didn’t get it the first time.”
In a discussion about makeup, someone might mention, “You can reapply lipstick throughout the day for a fresh look.”
A person discussing sunscreen might advise, “Remember to reapply every two hours for maximum protection.”

27. Reutilization

This term refers to the act of using something again, especially after it has been previously used or considered no longer useful. It emphasizes the idea of finding a new purpose or value in something that might have otherwise been discarded.

For instance, in a conversation about sustainability, someone might say, “Reutilization is an important way to reduce waste.”
A person discussing recycling might explain, “Reutilization involves taking materials and repurposing them for a different use.”
In a discussion about vintage fashion, someone might mention, “Reutilization of old clothing is a popular trend among eco-conscious consumers.”

28. Rejuvenation

This term refers to the process of restoring or revitalizing something to a more youthful or fresh state. It can be used to describe the act of improving or refreshing something that has become worn out or outdated.

For example, in a discussion about home decor, someone might say, “A fresh coat of paint can bring rejuvenation to any room.”
A person discussing skincare might recommend, “Regular exfoliation can promote skin rejuvenation.”
In a conversation about urban development, someone might mention, “The revitalization of this neighborhood has brought a sense of rejuvenation to the community.”

29. Restoration

This term refers to the act of returning something to its original or former condition. It is often used when discussing the repair or improvement of something that has been damaged, deteriorated, or neglected.

For instance, in a conversation about historical buildings, someone might say, “The restoration of this old church preserved its original architectural features.”
A person discussing antique furniture might explain, “Restoration involves repairing and refinishing old pieces to bring back their beauty.”
In a discussion about environmental conservation, someone might mention, “Restoration projects aim to restore natural habitats and ecosystems.”

30. Reinstatement

This term refers to the act of restoring or reestablishing something that has been removed or taken away. It is often used when discussing the return or reintegration of someone or something to a previous position or state.

For example, in a conversation about employment, someone might say, “After appealing the decision, he was granted reinstatement to his previous job.”
A person discussing sports might mention, “The player’s reinstatement to the team brought a sense of relief to the fans.”
In a discussion about policies, someone might argue, “The reinstatement of this law will have a significant impact on the economy.”

31. Second-hand

This term refers to an item that has been previously owned or used by someone else before being sold or given to another person.

For example, “I bought a second-hand car from a local dealership.”
A person might say, “I prefer shopping for second-hand clothes because they are more affordable.”
Someone might ask, “Do you know where I can find second-hand furniture in this area?”

32. Hand-me-down

This term refers to an item, typically clothing or other personal items, that is given to someone else after the original owner no longer needs or wants it.

For instance, “I received this shirt as a hand-me-down from my older brother.”
A person might say, “I love getting hand-me-down books from my friends.”
Someone might ask, “Does anyone have any hand-me-down baby clothes they no longer need?”

33. Recast

This term refers to the process of reworking or reimagining something, often a piece of media or a character, with a new actor or interpretation.

For example, “The movie was a recast of the original version, with a new lead actor.”
A person might say, “The television show recast the main character in the second season.”
Someone might ask, “What are your thoughts on the recast of the iconic superhero in the latest movie?”

34. Rehash

This term refers to something, such as an idea or story, that is recycled or presented again without significant changes or new elements.

For instance, “The author’s latest novel was criticized for being a rehash of their previous work.”
A person might say, “I’m tired of hearing the same rehashed arguments in this debate.”
Someone might ask, “Why do movie studios keep making rehashed versions of old films instead of creating new stories?”

35. Reclamation

This term refers to the process of recovering or repurposing something, often with the goal of restoring its value or usefulness.

For example, “The artist specializes in the reclamation of discarded materials to create unique sculptures.”
A person might say, “The reclamation of this abandoned building turned it into a thriving community center.”
Someone might ask, “What are some techniques for the reclamation of contaminated land?”

36. Rebirth

This term refers to the act of being born again or starting anew. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a revival or resurgence of something.

For example, someone might say, “After going through a difficult period, I feel like I’ve experienced a rebirth.”
In a discussion about a revitalized neighborhood, a person might comment, “The new shops and restaurants have brought about a rebirth of this area.”
A person discussing personal growth might say, “I went through a rebirth after I discovered my passion for painting.”

37. Recirculate

To recirculate means to reuse or send back into circulation. It is often used in the context of resources or information that can be reused or redistributed.

For instance, someone might say, “We need to recirculate these pamphlets to reach a wider audience.”
In a discussion about sustainable practices, a person might comment, “Recirculating water can help conserve resources.”
A teacher might instruct students, “After you finish reading the book, please recirculate it to your classmates.”

38. Reemploy

To reemploy means to hire someone again or give them a job after a period of unemployment or absence from the workforce.

For example, a manager might say, “We should consider reemploying John. He was a valuable employee.”
In a discussion about workforce development, a person might comment, “Reemploying individuals with relevant skills can help fill labor gaps.”
An HR representative might advise, “If you decide to reemploy a former employee, make sure to update their contract and terms of employment.”

39. Regift

Regifting refers to the act of giving a gift that one has received to someone else, usually without the original gift-giver’s knowledge.

For instance, someone might say, “I didn’t like the sweater I received, so I regifted it to my sister.”
In a discussion about holiday gift-giving, a person might comment, “Regifting can be a way to reduce waste and save money.”
A friend might jokingly say, “I hope you didn’t regift that ugly vase I gave you last year!”

40. Revive

To revive means to bring something back to life or restore it to a functioning state.

For example, a doctor might say, “CPR can be used to revive a person who has stopped breathing.”
In a discussion about a declining industry, a person might comment, “We need new strategies to revive this sector.”
A person discussing a revived interest in a hobby might say, “I took a break from painting, but recently I’ve been inspired to revive my artistic pursuits.”

41. Reinvent

To completely change or transform something in order to make it better or more modern. “Reinvent” often implies a significant overhaul or reimagining of the original.

For example, a company might “reinvent” its product line to appeal to a new target audience.
A fashion designer might “reinvent” a classic style for a modern runway.
In the tech industry, companies often strive to “reinvent” themselves to stay competitive in the market.

42. Redo

To do something again, usually because the first attempt was unsatisfactory or unsuccessful. “Redo” implies starting from scratch or going back to the beginning.

For instance, if a student receives a low grade on a paper, they might ask the teacher if they can “redo” it for a better score.
A homeowner might “redo” their kitchen if they are unhappy with the initial design.
In the world of film, directors sometimes choose to “redo” certain scenes to achieve the desired effect.

43. Reoperate

To perform a surgical procedure or medical operation again, often to correct a previous procedure or address a new issue. “Reoperate” implies a repeat of a specific surgical intervention.

For example, if a patient develops complications after a surgery, they may need to “reoperate” to fix the problem.
A surgeon might choose to “reoperate” if there is residual tumor left after the initial surgery.
In some cases, a patient may request to “reoperate” to improve the aesthetic outcome of a previous procedure.

44. Reengage

To become involved or interested in something again after a period of disengagement. “Reengage” implies a renewed commitment or active participation.

For instance, if someone takes a break from a hobby, they might “reengage” with it by joining a new club or taking a class.
A company might “reengage” with a former client by reaching out to them with new offers or promotions.
In relationships, couples may go through ups and downs but can choose to “reengage” and work on their connection.

45. Reanimate

To revive or bring something back to life, often in a metaphorical sense. “Reanimate” can refer to revitalizing something that has lost its energy or enthusiasm.

For example, a motivational speaker might aim to “reanimate” a disheartened audience and inspire them to take action.
A teacher might try to “reanimate” a dull classroom by introducing interactive activities and engaging discussions.
In the world of animation, characters can be “reanimated” to continue their stories or appear in new adventures.

46. Reconstitute

To reconstitute something means to restore or bring it back to its original form or state. This term is often used in the context of food or cooking, where ingredients are mixed with liquid to bring them back to their original consistency or texture.

For example, “You can reconstitute dried mushrooms by soaking them in water.”
In a recipe, it might say, “Reconstitute the dehydrated sauce by adding water.”
A food preservationist might explain, “Dehydrating fruits and vegetables allows you to reconstitute them later for use in recipes.”

47. Reexploit

Reexploit means to use or take advantage of something again, often for personal gain or benefit. This term is commonly used in the context of business or marketing, where existing resources or strategies are used again to achieve desired results.

For instance, “The company decided to reexploit their successful advertising campaign from last year.”
In a discussion about sustainable practices, one might argue, “We need to reexploit materials and resources instead of constantly producing new ones.”
A business consultant might advise, “Reexploiting existing customer data can lead to cost savings and targeted marketing efforts.”