Advertisement - Continue reading below

Definition of "renaissance" []

  • A rebirth or revival. (noun)
  • The humanistic revival of classical art, architecture, literature, and learning that originated in Italy in the 14th century and later spread throughout Europe. (noun)
  • The period of this revival, roughly the 14th through the 16th century, marking the transition from medieval to modern times. (noun)
  • A revival of intellectual or artistic achievement and vigor: the Celtic Renaissance. (noun)
  • The period of such a revival. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Use "renaissance" in a sentence
  • "‡ The term renaissance is often used to describe any revival or rediscovery."
  • "I don't think the term renaissance is overstating it."
  • "And then come the Indians, the natives people, and the music that we still today are singing in the baroque music at the end of the renaissance is a mix of this confluence of old Spain, African rhythmical and songs, and Indian influences - all this mixed together."