Pronunciation: [ɹɪfˈastən] (IPA) 
The word "refasten" is spelled with a "re" prefix and the root word "fasten". The /r/ sound is represented by the letter "r" and the /ɛ/ sound is represented with the letter "e". The "a" in "fasten" represents the /æ/ sound, and the final syllable is pronounced with a short /ən/ sound. The IPA phonetic transcription for "refasten" would be /riːˈfæstən/. This term means to securely attach something, after it has become loose or undone.
Refasten, verb:
To secure or attach something that was previously loosened or detached, often by using fasteners or means of fixing.
When an object or material becomes loose or detached, refastening is the act of reconnecting or securing it back into place. This can involve using various devices, such as buttons, zippers, hooks, clasps, buckles, or similar fasteners, to restore stability or tightness. Refastening is commonly required when clothing, accessories, or other items with adjustable parts need to be adjusted or when a closure mechanism needs to be resecured after being opened or let loose. For instance, if a person's coat becomes unbuttoned, they may need to refasten the buttons by aligning and threading them through the corresponding buttonholes.
In a broader sense, refasten can also refer to the act of reattaching or securing larger objects or structures. This may involve using tools, adhesives, screws, nails, or other means of affixing to restore solidity or stability. For example, if a piece of furniture becomes wobbly due to loose screws, one might need to refasten the screws by tightening them so that the furniture stands firmly.
Overall, refastening implies the act of reestablishing a secure connection or attachment, returning an item or material back to its desired state of fixation or stability.
To fasten anew.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "refasten" is derived from the combination of two roots: "re-" and "fasten".
The prefix "re-" in Latin means "again" or "back" and often indicates repetition or reversal. In this case, "re-" implies repeating the action of fastening or securing something.
The word "fasten" comes from Old English "fæstnian", which means "to make secure or firm". It is related to the Old High German word "festnan" and the Old Norse word "fastna". These roots ultimately trace back to the Proto-Germanic word *fastinōną which shares a common ancestor with the Proto-Indo-European word *pastis, meaning "rope" or "cord".
Combining the prefix "re-" with "fasten", we get the word "refasten", which means to fasten something again or secure it once more.
