English Reference
verb · noun

rebuild

v. · n.
US /ɹiˈbɪɫd/ UK /ɹɪbˈɪld/ re·build UK spelling rebuilded, rebuilds

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    v.to build something again after it was damaged or destroyed.

    v.to construct a physical structure again after it has been demolished or damaged. Often used transitively with a direct object.

    Simple

    The city had to rebuild many houses after the heavy floods last year.

    In context

    Following the earthquake, the government allocated significant funds to rebuild the historic district using modern seismic safety standards.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.to make something like a relationship, a team, or a life better after a bad time.

    v.to restore or strengthen an abstract entity, such as a reputation, relationship, or organisation, after a period of decline or failure.

    Simple

    It took several years for the two friends to rebuild their trust in each other.

    In context

    The new CEO was hired specifically to rebuild the company's reputation after the public relations disaster of the previous summer.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.the act of building something again, or the finished result.

    n.the process or the specific instance of reconstructing something. Often used in technical or sports contexts.

    Simple

    The engine rebuild was expensive, but the car runs like new now.

    In context

    The team's management announced a total rebuild, trading away veteran players to focus on developing younger talent for the future.

Usage rebuild their lives

Some farmers are trying to rebuild through small-scale projects.

Al Jazeera· 15 Aug 2026

It will help them rebuild their community,” Sarah says.

UN News· 9 Aug 2026

From re- + build.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated