Reordained

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

  1. To designate again for a specific role or position within a religious context
  2. to rearrange the order or status of something previously established
  3. to officially appoint anew, often carrying the implication of renewed authority or responsibility

Etymology: The verb in question is formed by combining the prefix "re-" with the base "ordain," creating a term that means to ordain again. The prefix "re-" derives from Latin, where it generally indicates repetition or backward motion, so it often signals the idea of doing something over or anew. This prefix is very productive in English, attaching to verbs to express the action of repeating or returning to a prior state. The root "ordain" itself has a long history, originating from the Latin "ordinare," meaning "to arrange, set in order, or appoint." This Latin verb comes from "ordo," meaning "order or rank." In medieval Latin and later ecclesiastical contexts, "ordain" came to mean "to officially appoint someone to a clerical or religious office," especially through a formal ceremony. English adopted "ordain" in the late Middle Ages, around the 14th century, primarily with this religious sense. Putting these elements together, "reordain" literally means "to ordain again," referring to the act of conferring holy orders a second time. This could happen in specific religious contexts where a previous ordination was considered invalid, incomplete, or was otherwise called into question. While the base "ordain" has been common for centuries, the prefixed form is rarer and usually appears in technical theological or historical discussions rather than everyday language. Grammatically, the past tense form "reordained" simply marks the completion of this action at a previous time. The structure follows regular English verb formation patterns, with "re-" attached to the base verb and "-ed" added to indicate the past tense. This construction reflects a straightforward and transparent derivation rather than a complex historical evolution or semantic shift.

Synonyms: reinstated, reconsecrated, recommissioned