renovare

Renovare is a Latin verb meaning to renew, restore, or revitalize. It is formed from re- (again) and novus (new), and its principal parts are renovare, renovo, renovavi, renovatus. The verb appears in classical Latin and in ecclesiastical Latin, where it can denote physical restoration as well as renewal of religion, tradition, or moral character. The related noun renovatio means renewal and has given rise to English terms such as renovation and renovate.

In Latin, renovare is used in a broad sense of making something new again or reviving it after decay. As with many Latin verbs, it can be employed in both secular and religious contexts. The concept of renewal expressed by renovare has a long-standing presence in Latin literature and theology, where it often carried both practical and spiritual connotations. The word’s semantic field connects to a family of terms built from novus (new) and re- (again), which appear across European languages in cognate forms.

Beyond its linguistic use, renovare appears as the name of a contemporary Christian movement and organization dedicated to spiritual formation. Renovaré (often styled Renovare) promotes practices and resources intended to deepen spiritual life and renewal within individuals and communities, emphasizing disciplines such as prayer, Scripture engagement, and social renewal. The organization operates internationally and provides teaching materials, courses, and events designed to support personal and corporate growth in faith.

See also: renovation, renovatio, spiritual formation.