reappropriate
/ˌriːəˈproʊpriˌeɪt/
verb
- To take something back, especially money or resources that were previously assigned to a different purpose.
- After the project was canceled, the company had to reappropriate the budget to other departments.
- The committee voted to reappropriate the unused funds for a new library.
- The government decided to reappropriate the surplus tax revenue to improve public schools.
- To take a word, symbol, or cultural element that was once used negatively and use it in a positive or empowering way, often by a marginalized group.
- The artist's goal was to reappropriate the symbol and give it a new, inclusive meaning.
- Activists often reappropriate negative labels to challenge stereotypes.
- Some communities have worked to reappropriate slurs and turn them into terms of pride.