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noun

renaissance

/rɪˈneɪsəns/  ·  say it: rih·NAY·suhns

the 14th–16th century revival of classical art and learning

In Arts & Culture

In more detail

1. (noun) a period of great cultural and artistic development, especially the period in Europe from the 14th to 17th centuries when there was a revival of classical learning and art

2. (noun) a new period of growth or improvement in any field or activity

Examples

How to use renaissance

Renaissance primarily refers to the historical European movement (14th–17th centuries) of renewed interest in classical learning and art, but more broadly describes any period of cultural flowering or renewed activity in any field. When used broadly, it emphasizes a revitalization marked by creative energy and new ideas, often contrasting with a preceding period of stagnation.

Register: formal

Common phrases

Synonyms

revival · rebirth · resurgence · rejuvenation · flowering

Opposites

decline · stagnation · decay

Word family

renaissance (noun) · Renaissances (plural)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes capitalize the word incorrectly when referring to the historical period; while it should be capitalized when referring to the specific historical Renaissance, lowercase 'renaissance' is used for metaphorical applications to other fields or periods.

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