Synonyms of recycle

recycle

verb

(ˌ)rē-ˈsī-kəl 

as in to recover

to obtain (a raw material) by separating it from a by-product or waste product

recycling the aluminum from soda pop cans is environmentally sound

Synonyms & Similar Words

• recover
• reclaim
• reuse
• process
• reprocess

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of recycle

While chances are these organizations will accept everything and sort it out later, not everything can actually be donated for resale and may need to be thrown away or recycled instead. —Quincy Bulin, Southern Living, 22 Jan. 2026

This thermal’s 95% recycled polyester/5% spandex material features a soft, fleecey, sweat-wicking, and super-breathable waffle knit next to the skin, and a smooth face on the exterior. —Lisa Jhung, Outside, 21 Jan. 2026

In the report, the state’s waste agency said items like yogurt containers, shampoo bottles and restaurant takeout trays are being recycled at rates only in the low single digits. —James Rainey, Los Angeles Times, 21 Jan. 2026

Wondering how to recycle something your local system won’t take? —Chris Baskind, Treehugger, 20 Jan. 2026