verb
rehearse
rih-HS
Rehearse (verb) means to practise a performance, speech, or scene in preparation for the real thing. Example: “The actors rehearsed the final scene for hours.”
verb
1
To practise a performance, speech, or scene in preparation for the real thing.
"The actors rehearsed the final scene for hours."
"She rehearsed her presentation in front of the mirror."
2
To prepare and go over a story carefully so it sounds convincing.
"He'd clearly rehearsed his excuse before coming home."
How to use rehearse
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo practise something, or to carefully prepare an explanation in advance.
Common pairings
rehearse a speech
rehearse lines
well-rehearsed
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- rehearses
- Past tense
- rehearsed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The actors _____ the final scene for hours.
Etymology
From Anglo-Norman reherser, "to repeat word for word."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for rehearse
See all rhymes for rehearse →Frequently asked questions
What does “rehearse” mean?
The word “rehearse” means to practise a performance, speech, or scene in preparation for the real thing. In plain terms, to practise something, or to carefully prepare an explanation in advance.
How do you pronounce “rehearse”?
“Rehearse” is pronounced rih-HS (/ɹɪˈhɝs/ in IPA).
How do you use “rehearse” in a sentence?
Here is “rehearse” used in a sentence: “The actors rehearsed the final scene for hours.”
What part of speech is “rehearse”?
“Rehearse” is a verb.
Where does the word “rehearse” come from?
The word “rehearse” comes from Anglo-Norman. From Anglo-Norman reherser, "to repeat word for word.".
How many meanings does “rehearse” have?
“Rehearse” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to practise a performance, speech, or scene in preparation for the real thing.
