Renew (r-n), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Reneved (-nd); p. pr. & vb. n. Renewing.]
Etymology: [Pref. re- + new. Cf. Renovate.]
1. To make new again; to restore to freshness, perfection, or vigor; to give new life to; to rejuvenate; to re In such a night Medea gathered the enchanted herbs That did renew old Shak.
2. Specifically, to substitute for (an old obligation or right) a new one of the same nature; to continue in force; to make again; as, to renew a lease, note, or patent.
3. To begin again; to recommence. The last great age . . . renews its finished course. Dryden.
4. To repeat; to go over again. The birds-their notes renew. Milton.
2 more senses
5. (Theol.)
To make new spiritually; to regenerate. Be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind. Rom. xii. 2.
1 other Webster entry under this spelling
Renew, v. i.
To become new, or as new; to grow or begin again.
Shades of meaning
Fernald lists renew only as an antonym, under abolish.
He lists it without comment; the entries above explain its neighbors.