recovery

noun

re·​cov·​ery ri-ˈkə-və-rē 

-ˈkəv-rē

plural recoveries

1

: the act, process, or an instance of recovering

especially : an economic upturn (as after a depression)

2

: the process of combating a disorder (such as alcoholism) or a real or perceived problem

Synonyms

• recapture
• reclamation
• recoupment
• repossession
• retrieval

Examples of recovery in a Sentence

This policy may slow the pace of economic recovery.

We hope for the recovery of the stolen paintings.

Their mission was the recovery of the space capsule.

Recent Examples on the Web

Beach day with friends takes scary turn Throughout his recovery, Taschman has had time to reflect on the importance of those who were with him at the beach that day: Peci and his two friends Hunter Roland and Zach Bucolo. —USA TODAY, 31 Oct. 2024

The unequal recovery since the Great Recession and frustration that costly college degrees haven’t always yielded meaningful returns have only hardened those attitudes. —Maria Flynn, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024

The focus now shifts to how to keep awareness on the area and the ongoing need as the recovery will take years. —Melinda Newman, Billboard, 30 Oct. 2024

Its current state is a culmination of many problems—from red tape impeding business to lackluster demand recovery stunting the growth of its key industries. —Samuel Burke, Fortune Europe, 29 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing recovery

• data recovery
• enhanced recovery
• make a complete/full recovery
• on the road to recovery
• recovery room
• road to recovery
• speedy recovery
• spontaneous recovery

Kids Definition

recovery

noun

re·​cov·​ery ri-ˈkəv-(ə-)rē 

plural recoveries

: the act or process or an instance of recovering

Medical Definition

recovery

noun

re·​cov·​ery ri-ˈkəv-(ə-)rē 

plural recoveries

: the act of regaining or returning toward a normal or healthy state

Legal Definition

recovery

noun

re·​cov·​ery ri-ˈkə-və-rē 

plural recoveries

1

: the act, process, or fact of recovering

2

a

: the obtaining, getting back, or vindication of a right or property by judgment or decree

especially : the obtaining of damages

b

: an amount awarded by or collected as a result of a judgment or decree