re-entry

UK: /ˌriːˈɛntri/ | US: /ˌriːˈɛntri/

Definition

  1. n. the act of entering again

  2. n. (Spaceflight) the return of a spacecraft into Earth's atmosphere

  3. n. (Law) the legal right to regain possession of property

Structure
re <again>entry <act of entering>
Etymology

The word "re-entry" combines the prefix "re-" (from Latin, meaning "again") with the noun "entry" (derived from Old French "entree," meaning "act of entering"). The term originally described general repeated entry but gained specialized meanings in spaceflight (mid-20th century) and property law. The logic is transparent: "re-" signals repetition, while "entry" maintains its core meaning across contexts.

Examples

  1. The astronaut prepared for spacecraft re-entry into Earth's atmosphere.

  2. After renovation, the museum announced its re-entry to visitors.

  3. The landlord secured legal re-entry to the property after lease violations.

  4. Economic re-entry programs help former inmates find employment.

  5. The comet's re-entry into the solar system occurs every 76 years.