# reverse-engineer

> English word · Verb

## Definitions
1. To derive or duplicate the design, technical specifications, manufacturing methods, or functionality of an object by studying an existing product, prototype, etc.
2. To create or modify an implementation to better conform to a desired goal.

## Etymology
Back-formation from reverse engineering.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/reverse-engineer