1. to invent again or anew, especially without knowing that the invention already exists. 2. to remake or make over, as in a different form: At 60, he reinvented himself as a volunteer. We have an opportunity to reinvent government. 3. to bring back; revive: to reinvent trust and accountability. 4. to replace (a product, etc) with an entirely new version 5. to duplicate (something that already exists) in what is therefore a wasted effort (esp in the phrase reinvent the wheel)