Revival: Definition, Usage & Common Examples

Meaning 1：renewal or resurgence (revival)

revival 🔊

/rɪˈvaɪv(ə)l/

The process when something that was inactive or unpopular becomes active and popular again.

Revival concept illustrated by a bookstore transforming from empty and dusty to vibrant and full of customers.

renewal or resurgence 🔊

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/rɪˈnjuːəl ɔː rɪˈsɜːdʒəns/

The act or process of something becoming active, popular, or important again after a period of little activity or interest.

📁 Category：Culture & History 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'revivere' (re- 'again' + vivere 'to live'). Noun form of 'revive'.

💡 Mnemonic

Think RE-VIVAL: to bring something back to LIFE (VIV) again (RE).

📖 Example

After years of neglect, the local theater saw a revival with sold-out shows and new audiences. 🔊 After years of neglect, the local theater experienced a renewal or resurgence with sold-out shows and new audiences.

🔗 Collocations

economic revival – a period of renewed economic growth after a downturn

cultural revival – the renewed interest and activity in the arts or traditions of a group

revival of interest – a situation where people start being interested in something again

🔄 Synonyms

resurgence (n.) – a rising again into life, activity, or prominence

rebirth (n.) – a new or second birth; a revival

renaissance (n.) – a revival of or renewed interest in something

🚫 Antonyms

decline (n.) – a gradual and continuous loss of strength, numbers, quality, or value

extinction (n.) – the state or process of ceasing or causing something to cease to exist

🌱 Derivatives

revive (v.) – to restore to life or consciousness; to give new strength or energy to

revivify (v.) – to give new life or energy to

📖 Cultural Story

The word entered English in the 1650s via French, from the Latin root. It gained prominence describing religious awakenings, like the 'Great Revival' movements in 18th-19th century America. Today, it's widely used in cultural contexts (e.g., fashion revival) and business (economic revival).