To reset means to return something to its starting state or original settings. When you reset a video game, you erase your progress and begin again from the beginning. When you reset a digital clock after a power outage, you set it back to the correct time. Resetting your computer can fix problems by restarting its programs fresh.

You might reset a combination lock by spinning it back to zero, or reset a board game by putting all the pieces back in their starting positions.

People also use reset more broadly to mean starting fresh. A basketball team might try to reset their strategy at halftime after falling behind. After a frustrating morning, you might take a deep breath and try to reset your attitude. A teacher might call for a reset when a classroom discussion gets too chaotic, asking everyone to quiet down and start over with better focus.

The noun form is also common: “Let's do a reset and try this again.” Whether it's a device, a game, or an approach to a problem, a reset gives you the chance to begin anew with what you've learned.