WordGarden.iorehearse
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /rɪhˈɜːs/
US
- /riˈhɜrs/
Meanings
Verb
to practice a performance, scene, speech, or piece before presenting it
to go through words, actions, or plans again in the mind to prepare
to retell or repeat facts, events, or arguments in words
Beyond the definition
Imagine a big play about to open! Before the actors step onto the stage for real, they rehearse—they go over their lines and movements again and again. To rehearse is not just about memorizing; it is also about getting better and feeling more confident. You might rehearse a speech before giving it at school, or a band might rehearse a song before a concert. It is all about preparation. Sometimes you even rehearse in your head by practicing a difficult conversation before you have it.
To rehearse means to practice something repeatedly so that you become proficient and prepared for a performance, event, or situation. It's more than just going through the motions; rehearsal involves refining skills, coordinating with others, and anticipating potential challenges. Think of an orchestra rehearsing a symphony—each musician practices their part individually, then they come together to blend their sounds and ensure a harmonious performance.
The word "rehearse" has a fascinating history, originating from the Old French rehercier, which means "to harrow over again." Just as a farmer uses a harrow to break up clods of earth and smooth out a field for planting, to rehearse is to "go over the ground" of your work repeatedly until it is polished and ready. While often associated with the performing arts—theatre, music, dance—you can rehearse almost anything. A lawyer might rehearse their closing argument, a salesperson might rehearse their pitch, or an athlete might mentally rehearse a crucial play.
Rehearsal isn't limited to formal settings, either. You might rehearse a difficult conversation in your mind before having it with someone, playing out different scenarios and responses. This mental rehearsal can help you feel more confident and prepared when the real moment arrives. So whether it's on stage, in a courtroom, or inside your own head, to rehearse is to practice diligently for success—refining skills and building confidence through repetition and preparation.
Examples
- 1
Theater
The cast rehearsed for two weeks before opening night.
- 2
Presentation
We still need to rehearse the last part of the presentation.
- 3
Interview preparation
I rehearsed what I wanted to say before the interview.
- Patternrehearse what to say
prepare the exact words in advance
- 4
Silent practice
She silently rehearsed her answer while she waited outside the manager's office.
- Patternrehearse something silently
practise it in your mind
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Debate coaching
The campaign team had clearly rehearsed him for the TV debate.
- Patternrehearse + person for + event
help someone prepare carefully for it
- 6
Mental repetition
He kept rehearsing the argument in his head long after the meeting ended.
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- rehearseverb
Forms
- rehearsing-ing formverb
- rehearsedpast tenseverb
- rehearsesverb