PoliticsAugust 30, 2026
rechristen
ree-KRIS-en
Definition
To give a new name to something, especially in a way that suggests a formal or significant renaming process.
Etymology
Derived from the Middle English 'cristenen' meaning to baptize, combined with the prefix 're-' meaning again. Originally used in a religious context, it expanded to mean any act of bestowing a new name.
In the news
The article uses the term to describe President Trump's attempts to change the official names of geographic features like Lake Ontario and the Gulf of Mexico. It highlights Mapquest's refusal to follow suit in this renaming campaign.
SoCal-based Mapquest takes stand against Trump’s ‘Lake America.’ Also, still exists
Read the full article ↗Los Angeles Times