rewire
verb
re·wire
(ˌ)rē-ˈwī(-ə)r
rewired; rewiring
1
2
: to make lasting and usually beneficial changes to the neurological or psychological functioning of (a person or brain)
—not used technically
The injured brain, moreover, can rewire itself.—Joan Didion
Not only do studies show that meditation is boosting their immune system, but brain scans suggest that it may be rewiring their brains to reduce stress.—Joel Stein
… nearly nine out of 10 adult smokers started smoking by age 18; nicotine can rewire youths' brains, making heroin and other opioids even more addictive.—Delia DeRiggi-Whitton
Can you rewire yourself? I went back through pivotal points in my life, when one should be happy.—Kim Korson
Cite this Entry
“Rewire.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rewire. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.
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