Verb > Restore

Verb > Restore

(+ object)

1 : to give back (someone or something that was lost or taken) : to return (someone or something) — often + to

The police restored the stolen purse to its owner.

The police restored the lost child to her parents.

2 : to put or bring (something) back into existence or use

Surgery will restore his hearing. (=surgery will let him hear again)

The police restored law and order.

The team’s victory has restored a sense of pride to the community. (=the team’s victory has made the community feel proud again)

The government needs to restore confidence in the economy.

3 : to return (something) to an earlier or original condition by repairing it, cleaning it, etc.

The crew is trying to restore the old house (to its original condition).

He restores old paintings.

an antique car that is being carefully restored

newly/recently restored churches

4 a : to bring (someone) back to an earlier and better condition — usually + to

Her care restored the child to health.

4 b : to put (someone) back in a position — usually + to

His allies restored the king to the throne.

restorable adjective

The car is in restorable condition.

restorer noun, plural restorers (count)

an art restorer

a restorer of antique furniture