# resuscitate

/ɹiˈsəsɪˌteɪt/ (US) · /ɹɪsˈʌsɪtˌeɪt/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/resuscitate
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

to make someone alive or awake again after their heart or breathing has stopped, often with emergency medical help. You can also use it for bringing an old idea or project back to life.

For teachers: to restore breathing, circulation, or consciousness in a person who is apparently dead or close to death, typically by emergency medical measures. Extends figuratively to reviving traditions, organizations, or practices after decline or neglect.

## Examples

- Paramedics work hard to resuscitate the patient.
- The lifeguards pulled the swimmer from the pool and tried to resuscitate him before the ambulance arrived.
- After the funding collapse, the new director hoped to resuscitate the theatre company by restoring its original repertoire and community outreach.

## Synonyms

revive, resurrect

## Usage notes

- The verb is transitive and takes a direct object.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.