# revival

/ɹiˈvaɪvəɫ/ (US) · /ɹɪvˈaɪvəl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/revival
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. renewed popularity

noun · CEFR B2

when something from the past becomes popular or successful again.

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

- There has been a huge revival of vinyl records among young music fans.
- The city's industrial district is undergoing a cultural revival, with old warehouses being converted into modern art galleries and studios.

### 2. theatre/media

noun · CEFR B2

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

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

- The theatre is planning a revival of the famous musical next summer.
- Fans were delighted when the network announced a limited-series revival of the cult classic ten years after its final episode aired.

### 3. health or energy

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

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

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

- After a short nap and a glass of water, she felt a revival of her energy.
- The patient showed a sudden revival of spirits when her family arrived, showing more alertness than she had in days.

### 4. religious awakening

noun · CEFR B2

a period when many people become interested in religion again.

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

- The preacher travelled across the country holding large revival meetings in tents.
- Historians often study the Great Awakening as a pivotal religious revival that reshaped the social fabric of the American colonies.

### 5. legal restoration

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical · Formal

making a law or a legal case valid again.

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

- The lawyer argued for the revival of the case based on new evidence.
- The statute allows for the revival of certain debt claims if the debtor makes a partial payment after the limitation period has expired.

## Examples

- The city is seeing a revival of interest in local history.
- The theater company announced a revival of the classic musical, featuring a modern set and a diverse new cast.
- Economists are debating whether the recent increase in manufacturing jobs represents a permanent industrial revival or merely a temporary fluctuation in the global market.

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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.