reappropriate Definition
to take back or repurpose something, especially a derogatory term or stereotype, and use it in a positive or empowering way.
Using reappropriate: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "reappropriate" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The LGBTQ+ community has reappropriated the word 'queer' as a positive term.
Example
The feminist movement has reappropriated the phrase 'nasty woman' as a symbol of empowerment.
Example
The artist reappropriated discarded materials to create a unique sculpture.
reappropriate Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with reappropriate
to take back or repurpose derogatory terms or language and use them in a positive or empowering way
Example
The Black Lives Matter movement seeks to reappropriate language that perpetuates systemic racism.
reappropriate stereotypes
to take back or repurpose stereotypes and use them in a positive or empowering way
Example
The disability rights movement aims to reappropriate stereotypes about people with disabilities and promote inclusion and accessibility.
to take back or repurpose cultural elements that have been appropriated or misrepresented by others, especially dominant cultures
Example
Indigenous communities are working to reappropriate their cultural heritage and protect it from exploitation and misrepresentation.
Summary: reappropriate in Brief
The verb 'reappropriate' [ˌriːəˈprəʊprieɪt] means to take back or repurpose something, especially a derogatory term or stereotype, and use it in a positive or empowering way. It is often used in social justice movements to reclaim language, stereotypes, or cultural elements that have been appropriated or misrepresented by others. Examples include the LGBTQ+ community's reappropriation of the word 'queer' and the feminist movement's reappropriation of the phrase 'nasty woman.'
