restart
Restart (verb) means to begin something again after it has stopped. Example: “You may need to restart the computer for the update to take effect.”
How to use restart
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishStarting something again, often a machine, game, or process.
Word forms
restarted past tense, restarts plural, restarts singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
You may need to _____ the computer for the update to take effect.
Etymology
From re- ("again") plus start.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “restart” mean?
The word “restart” means to begin something again after it has stopped. In plain terms, starting something again, often a machine, game, or process.
How do you pronounce “restart”?
“Restart” is pronounced rih-STAHT (/ˈɹiːˌstɑɹt/ in IPA).
How do you use “restart” in a sentence?
Here is “restart” used in a sentence: “You may need to restart the computer for the update to take effect.”
What part of speech is “restart”?
Depending on how it is used, “restart” can be a verb and a noun.
Is “restart” a common word?
“Restart” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “restart” have?
“Restart” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to begin something again after it has stopped.
What is the difference between restart and reboot?
Restart is a general term for beginning something again after it has stopped, applicable to devices, processes, or situations, while reboot is a more specific technical term used almost exclusively for restarting a computer or electronic device. Restart can be used more broadly, such as restarting a conversation or a career.
What is the difference between restart and resume?
Restart means beginning something again from the start or from where it stopped, often implying a fresh initialization, while resume means continuing something that was paused without starting over. Restarting a device clears its current state, whereas resuming a task picks up exactly where it left off.
Is restart one word or two?
Restart is written as one word, both as a verb ("to restart the engine") and as a noun ("the restart went smoothly"). Writing it as two words, "re start," is considered incorrect in standard English.