English Reference
noun

revival

n.
US /ɹiˈvaɪvəɫ/ UK /ɹɪvˈaɪvəl/ re·vival UK spelling revival's, revival's

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    when something from the past becomes popular or successful again.

    the return to popularity, activity, or fashion of a practice, style, or cultural movement.

    Simple

    There has been a huge revival of vinyl records among young music fans.

    In context

    The city's industrial district is undergoing a cultural revival, with old warehouses being converted into modern art galleries and studios.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Theatre

    a new production of an old play, or a TV show that returns after being cancelled.

    a new production of a previously performed play or the resumption of a television series after a significant hiatus.

    Simple

    The theatre is planning a revival of the famous musical next summer.

    In context

    Fans were delighted when the network announced a limited-series revival of the cult classic ten years after its final episode aired.

    relaunchre staging
  3. 03 C1 Advanced Formal

    the return of strength, energy, or a good mood.

    the restoration of physical strength, consciousness, or emotional vitality after a period of weakness or depression.

    Simple

    After a short nap and a glass of water, she felt a revival of her energy.

    In context

    The patient showed a sudden revival of spirits when her family arrived, showing more alertness than she had in days.

    recoveryrecuperation
  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate Religion

    a period when many people become interested in religion again.

    a period of renewed religious interest and enthusiasm within a community, often marked by evangelistic meetings.

    Simple

    The preacher travelled across the country holding large revival meetings in tents.

    In context

    Historians often study the Great Awakening as a pivotal religious revival that reshaped the social fabric of the American colonies.

  5. 05 C2 Proficiency TechnicalFormal Law

    making a law or a legal case valid again.

    the restoration of legal force, validity, or the reinstatement of a previously terminated legal action.

    Simple

    The lawyer argued for the revival of the case based on new evidence.

    In context

    The statute allows for the revival of certain debt claims if the debtor makes a partial payment after the limitation period has expired.

    nullification

He and Watkins met on the 2018 Broadway revival of the pre-Stonewall chamber-piece The Boys in the Band .

The Guardian· 13 Aug 2026

The internal rifts threatened to distract the group while it was facing severe business headwinds including the revival of Air India , which it bought from the Indian government in 2022.

BBC News· 12 Aug 2026

From revive + -al.

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

This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated