redistribute

UK: ˌriːdɪˈstrɪbjuːt | US: ˌriːdɪˈstrɪbjuːt

Definition

  1. vt. to distribute something again or differently

  2. vt. to reallocate resources, duties, or opportunities

Structure
re <again>dis <apart>tribute <assign>
Etymology

The word "redistribute" combines three morphemes:

  1. "re-" (Latin origin, meaning "again") indicates repetition.
  2. "dis-" (Latin origin, meaning "apart" or "in different directions") suggests dispersion.
  3. "tribute" (from Latin "tribuere," meaning "to assign" or "to grant") refers to allocation.
    Originally, "tribute" referred to payments or allocations, evolving into the broader sense of distribution. The prefix "re-" implies a repeated or altered action, while "dis-" emphasizes spreading or dividing. Together, they form a verb meaning "to distribute anew."
Examples

  1. The government plans to redistribute wealth to reduce inequality.

  2. After the merger, the company will redistribute roles among employees.

  3. The teacher decided to redistribute the tasks fairly among the students.

  4. The algorithm helps redistribute network traffic efficiently.

  5. Charities often redistribute donated goods to those in need.