replace

UK: rɪˈpleɪs | US: rɪˈpleɪs

Definition
  1. vt. to take the place of something or someone

  2. vt. to put something back in its original position

  3. vt. to provide a substitute for something

Structure
re <again/back>place <put>
Etymology

replace = re<again/back> + place<put>

  • re: A Latin prefix meaning "again" or "back," indicating repetition or restoration.
  • place: Derived from Old French placer (to put), from Latin platea (broad street, open space), ultimately from Greek plateia (broad way).

Etymology Origin:
The word "replace" combines the Latin prefix re- (signifying repetition or return) with place (to put or position). It originally meant "to put back in position" (e.g., replacing a book on a shelf) and later expanded to mean "to substitute" (e.g., replacing an old machine with a new one). The logic reflects a cyclical action—either restoring something to its original state or filling a void with an alternative.

Examples
  1. She decided to replace the broken vase with a new one.

  2. The manager will replace the outdated software next week.

  3. Can you replace the books on the shelf after reading?

  4. The team replaced the injured player with a rookie.

  5. Batteries must be replaced every six months for optimal performance.