WordGarden.ioreset
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /rɪsˈɛt/
US
- /ˈrisɛt/
Meanings
Verb
to return a device, system, or setting to its starting or default state
to start again from a fresh baseline after stress, disruption, or drift
Noun
an act of returning a device, system, or setting to its starting or default state
a fresh start or return to a baseline approach
Beyond the definition
Imagine building with Lego bricks, but you don't like how the structure is turning out. So you take it apart and start again. That's the basic idea behind this word. To reset something is to bring it back to the beginning, or to its default or original state.
We often talk about resetting technology, like pressing the "reset" button on your phone when it freezes or starting a game again after losing. But you can also reset your life by making big changes, like moving to a new city or starting a new hobby. A good night's sleep can reset your energy levels. Sometimes, even taking a deep breath can feel like a small reset for your mind.
To reset means to return something to its original state, often after a problem, interruption, or period of use. It suggests a fresh start and a return to a basic starting point.
The most common use today is in technology. When a computer freezes, you reset it by making it shut down and start again. This can clear temporary problems and restart the system. You might also reset your password if you forget it, which lets you create a new one so you can get back into your account.
However, "reset" is not only about technology. It can describe any process of starting over or bringing something back to its first condition. After a difficult period, someone might try to reset their life by making major changes, such as moving, changing careers, or ending relationships.
It can also be used in a figurative way. "Let's reset and focus on the next step" means taking a moment to clear your head and begin again. A vacation can reset your perspective after a stressful time at work. People also talk about routines, habits, moods, and schedules being reset when they return to a starting point.
So, whether it involves a digital device, a personal journey, or a natural cycle, to reset is to return to the beginning, offering an opportunity for a fresh start and renewed potential.
Examples
- 1
Frozen phone
If the screen freezes, hold the power button for ten seconds to reset the phone.
- 2
Home internet
I had to reset the router after the internet stopped working.
- 3
Password security
The app made me reset my password when I logged in on a new device.
- 4
Device settings
You can reset the camera to its factory settings if something is wrong.
- Phrasefactory settings
the original settings a device had when it was made
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Safety system
After the fire alarm, the staff reset the system and reopened the building.
- 6
Calm conversation
Let's reset and talk about this calmly from the beginning.
- 7
Mental rest
I took the weekend off to reset after a busy month.
- 8
Team performance
The team needed a reset after losing three games in a row.
- 9
Life change
Moving to a new city felt like hitting the reset button on my life.
- Phrasehit the reset button
make a fresh start
See also
Similar
- restore
- set again
Shades of meaning
- reboot
- reinitialize
- recalibrate
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- reset a password
- reset the system
- reset to factory settings
- reset expectations
Word family
Explore
- default settings
- configuration
Forms and spellings
6 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- resetverbnoun
Forms
- re-setpast tensepast participleverbnoun
- re-setting-ing formverbnoun
- re-setsverbnoun
- resetting-ing formverbnoun
- resetsverbnoun