Definition

1. Verb:
   • To cover again: "re-cover" means to apply a new covering to something that was previously covered.

     • Example: They decided to re-cover the old sofa with new fabric. (They put a fresh covering over the sofa.)
   • To restore a protective layer: To place a new layer over an object, such as a book, cushion, or piece of furniture, often to repair or refresh its appearance.

     • Example: The librarian had to re-cover several damaged books. (The librarian replaced the worn-out covers of the books.)

Usage Examples

• (We put a new covering on the roof.)
• (She intends to apply a new covering to the chair.)
• (They will apply a fresh surface to the court.)

Advanced Usage

• "re-cover" vs. "recover": Note the hyphen in "re-cover" distinguishes it from the verb "recover" (to regain health or possession). "Re-cover" specifically means to cover again.

  • Example: He needs to recover from his illness, but first, he must re-cover the broken window. (He must get well, but he also needs to put a new covering on the window.)

• In publishing: To re-cover a book means to replace its original binding or dust jacket.

  • Example: The rare book was re-covered with acid-free materials to preserve it. (The book was given a new protective cover.)

Variants and Related Words

• Re-covering (n): the act or process of covering something again.

  • The re-covering of the old armchair took two hours. (The process of putting a new covering on it was time-consuming.)

• Re-coverable (adj): capable of being covered again.

  • This cushion is re-coverable with a simple zipper system. (It can be given a new covering easily.)

Synonyms

• Reupholster: to provide new upholstery (especially for furniture).
  • They decided to reupholster the sofa instead of buying a new one. (They replaced the fabric covering.)
• Resurface: to apply a new surface layer.
  • The driveway was resurfaced with asphalt. (A new top layer was added.)

Phrasal Verbs

• Re-cover over: to cover something again, often with an emphasis on the action.
  • He had to re-cover over the old paint with a fresh coat. (He applied a new layer of paint on top of the old one.)

Related Idioms

• No direct common idioms: The word "re-cover" is a technical or practical term and does not appear in standard idiomatic expressions. However, it can be used in literal contexts to describe restoration or maintenance.