A more thorough explanation:

Definition: To return to a habit of criminal behavior; to relapse into crime.

Example: After serving time in prison for theft, John promised to turn his life around. However, he recidivated and was caught stealing again.

Explanation: The example illustrates the definition of recidivate as John returned to his criminal behavior of stealing, despite promising to change his ways. This behavior is known as recidivism, which is a common problem in the criminal justice system.