noun

reprise

ri-PREEZ

Reprise (noun) means a repeated section of a piece of music, especially a return to an earlier tune or song later in a show or album. Example: “The whole cast joins in for a reprise of the opening number.”

noun

A repeated section of a piece of music, especially a return to an earlier tune or song later in a show or album.

"The whole cast joins in for a reprise of the opening number."

"Track twelve is a stripped-back reprise of the title song."

A second occurrence of something that happened before.

"The final was a reprise of last year's semi-final."

verb

To perform or take on a role, act or piece of music again.

"She will reprise her role as the detective in the sequel."

How to use reprise

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishDoing or playing something again, especially a song or a role.

When to use it

Neutral; common in music, theatre and film journalism.

Memory tip

Reprise is a repetition; reprisal is an act of revenge. They are unrelated in meaning.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

reprisal → remix → encore →

Common pairings

reprise a role a reprise of the theme final reprise

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The whole cast joins in for a _____ of the opening number.

Etymology

From French reprise "resumption, retaking", from reprendre "to take back", from Latin reprehendere.

Origin: French

Synonyms

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repeat recurrence refrain revisit resume reenact rerun replay

Related words

include continue survey cycle repeat frequency proceed resume

Rhymes for reprise

rise wise vise Lise arise noise raise anise guise poise Elise Boise

See all rhymes for reprise →

Frequently asked questions

How is reprise pronounced?

It is said ri-PREEZ, rhyming with please, because the word comes straight from French. The spelling looks like prize, but the s stays soft.

What is the difference between a reprise and a remix?

A reprise is a return to the same material, usually performed again with a different mood, tempo or singer. A remix is an existing recording rebuilt with new production, so the original performance is still in there.

What is the meaning of reprise?

"reprise" (noun) means a repeated section of a piece of music, especially a return to an earlier tune or song later in a show or album.

What is another word for reprise?

Other words for "reprise" include repeat, recurrence, refrain, revisit, resume, reenact.

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include continue survey cycle repeat frequency proceed resume