Re-identify

To establish the identity of something or someone again, especially after it has been lost, obscured, or misidentified. This often involves a process of investigation, comparison, and verification to confirm the correct characteristics or attributes. It implies a renewed recognition or understanding of the original nature of the subject. Re-identification can apply to people, objects, locations, or even concepts, highlighting a return to a previous state of understanding or categorization. It emphasizes the action of restoring the known identity after some period of uncertainty or mistaken association.

Re-identify meaning with examples

• Forensic scientists meticulously analyzed fragmented remains to re-identify victims of the disaster, employing DNA analysis and dental records to match them with their missing person profiles. This difficult process brought closure for families.
• The archaeologist carefully examined the artifact to re-identify its purpose. After further scrutiny, the piece was re-classified from a tool to a ceremonial object, which changed the historical analysis of the civilization.
• After the data breach, the company took great pains to re-identify all affected customer accounts. By tracing their activities and cross-referencing information, the re-identification was essential to restore security and prevent fraud.
• The historical society worked tirelessly to re-identify old photographs, matching the images with detailed records of local residents. The re-identification helped create a more comprehensive history of the town's residents.