English Reference
noun

rendition

n.
US /ɹɛnˈdɪʃən/ UK /ɹɛndˈɪʃən/ ren·di·tion UK spelling rendition's, rendition's

  1. 01 C1 Advanced Formal

    a version of a book or text that has been translated into another language.

    the act of translating between languages or the resulting translated work.

    Simple

    The new rendition of the poem captures the original rhythm perfectly.

    In context

    Scholars debated whether this latest rendition of the ancient Greek text remained faithful to the author's subtle use of irony.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced TechnicalFormal Law

    the legal process of sending a person from one country or state to another to face trial.

    the formal act of handing over a person from one jurisdiction to another, often involving individuals wanted for criminal prosecution.

    Simple

    The government requested the rendition of the suspect to face charges at home.

    In context

    The controversial practice of extraordinary rendition has been heavily criticised by human rights organisations for bypassing standard legal protections.

    Usage

    Often used in the phrase 'extraordinary rendition' in political and legal contexts.

  3. 03 C2 Proficiency ArchaicLiterary

    the act of giving up a city or fort to an enemy.

    the act of surrendering a fortified place or territory to an opposing force.

    Simple

    The rendition of the castle followed a long and difficult siege.

    In context

    Historical records detail the terms of the rendition, ensuring the safe passage of civilians before the occupying forces entered the city.

At points, stomping percussion rises to the rafters, Bridgers uses effects to contort and throw her voice, and Hutson plays some of the most ominous harmonica ever heard on their rendition of Kill Me.

The Guardian· 18 Aug 2026

Bards didn’t need to craft original tales, but they did need to sell their renditions of old ones.

Smithsonian Magazine· 17 Jul 2026

From obsolete French rendition, alteration (after rendre (“to render”)) of reddition (“reddition”). Many senses influenced by render.

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

This entry
Origin French rendition
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated