neo

The prefix "neo-" comes from the Greek word for "new" or "recent." In English, it is used to show a new form, later version, or revived style of something older. Sometimes it means a direct revival of an earlier style, and sometimes it simply means a modern form connected to an older idea. So it does not always mean just "new" in a general sense. It usually suggests "new, but related to something that already existed."

You'll often see "neo-" in art, architecture, music, politics, religion, and social movements. Neoclassical architecture, for example, brings back features of classical Greek and Roman design. Neo-Expressionism refers to a newer movement in art that returned to strong emotional expression. Neo-Gothic architecture revives features of medieval Gothic buildings, such as pointed arches and tall, dramatic forms.

But the prefix reaches beyond those fields. Neoliberalism describes a later form of liberal economic thinking. Neoconservatism names a modern political movement connected to older conservative ideas. Neo-Nazism refers to present-day groups influenced by Nazi ideology, which is an especially harmful example. In music, neo-soul describes a modern style that draws on older soul traditions while mixing in other influences.

The key idea is that "neo-" usually connects the present to the past. It marks something as new, renewed, or newly shaped by an older model. So when you see "neo-" attached to a word, think of it as a fresh version of something familiar rather than something completely separate from what came before.