rehearse

UK: rɪˈhɜːs | US: rɪˈhɜːrs

Definition
  1. vt. to practice or repeat (a performance, speech, etc.) for later presentation

  2. vt. to recount or describe in detail

  3. vi. to engage in rehearsal

Structure
re <again>hearse <plow, rake>
Etymology

The word "rehearse" originates from Old French rehercier ("to go over again, repeat"), derived from re- (again) + hercier (to harrow, rake). The latter traces back to Latin hirpex ("harrow"), a farming tool used to break up soil. The metaphorical shift from "raking over" to "repeating/practicing" reflects the idea of repeatedly working through material to refine it—much like tilling soil for cultivation.

Examples
  1. The actors will rehearse the play daily before opening night.

  2. She rehearsed her apology multiple times to ensure it sounded sincere.

  3. The lawyer rehearsed the witness's testimony to prepare for cross-examination.

  4. The band spent hours rehearsing their new song.

  5. He nervously rehearsed his wedding vows in front of the mirror.