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 of recovery

• reclamation

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

Why at-home wellness tools matter in 2026 Travel is expensive, but recovery, sleep and skin care can be brought home. —Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 15 June 2026

The company added that Atlas’s athletic feats, including handstands and backflips, serve a practical purpose by helping develop balance, agility, slip recovery, and endurance needed for real-world industrial environments. —Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 15 June 2026

Or got into a severe car crash and dealt with a lengthy recovery? —Ian Miller Outkick, FOXNews.com, 15 June 2026

For deeper recovery, the $899 Normatec 3 Legs Compression Boots used by professional athletes between games fill with air and deflate in sequence to mimic muscle contractions, boost circulation and reduce swelling. —Hanna Wickes, Miami Herald, 15 June 2026

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

Rhymes for recovery

• rediscovery

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