WordGarden.iorelive
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /rɪlˈɪv/
US
- /riˈlɪv/
Meanings
Verb
to experience a past event again in memory
Beyond the definition
Have you ever looked at an old photograph and suddenly felt like you were back in that moment? That's what it means to relive something: to experience it again, not necessarily physically, but emotionally and mentally. It's more than just remembering; it's a powerful revisiting of the past. Soldiers often relive traumatic experiences as part of PTSD, while others might happily relive cherished memories from childhood. You can relive a concert by listening to the recording or relive a vacation by looking through photos. The key is that strong sense of re-experiencing.
To relive something means to experience it again, often vividly and emotionally, even if only in your mind. It's more than simply remembering an event; it's about feeling as though you are back in that moment, experiencing the sights, sounds, smells, and emotions all over again.
The word suggests a strong connection to the past and can be used in both positive and negative contexts. You might relive a joyful occasion like your wedding day with fondness or, unfortunately, relive a traumatic event against your will—as is often experienced by those suffering from post-traumatic stress.
"She closed her eyes and relived the warmth of the sun on her skin during her trip to Italy." This suggests a pleasant re-experiencing. However, "He couldn't sleep, constantly reliving the accident in his mind," paints a picture of unwanted and distressing repetition.
Relive can also be used figuratively. For example, "The townspeople hoped to relive the glory days of their once-thriving industry." This means they wanted to experience that success again, whether through remembrance or a renewed effort to recreate the conditions of the past.
So, whether it's a cherished memory, a painful event, or a longing for past times, to relive is to journey back in time—through the power of your mind and emotions.
Examples
- 1
Vacation memories
Looking at our old vacation photos made us relive the trip all over again.
- 2
Music memories
Every time he hears that song, he relives his first summer in college.
- 3
Legal testimony
The witness had to relive the accident during the trial.
- 4
Personal regret
She still relives that argument in her head and wishes she had said something different.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Sports documentary
The documentary lets fans relive the team's championship season.
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- reliveverb
Forms
- reliving-ing formverb
- relivedpast tenseverb
- relivesverb