retrieval

noun

re·​triev·​al ri-ˈtrē-vəl 

1

: an act or process of retrieving

2

: possibility of being retrieved or of recovering

beyond retrieval

Synonyms of retrieval

• reclamation
• recovery
• recapture

Examples of retrieval in a Sentence

the retrieval of stolen goods

The system allows quick storage and retrieval of data.

Recent Examples on the Web

The challenges that the rest of the contestants will face as the season continues include a supply load retrieval while suspended 300 feet above the jungle floor, chemical gassing and a claustrophobic, high-pressure search of an underground bunker. — Julia Moore, PEOPLE, 25 Sep. 2026

Engineers must also develop practical methods for retrieval, processing, and redeployment. — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 24 Sep. 2026

System instructions should require the agent to inspect initial evidence, reformulate searches, run additional retrieval passes, compare sources and verify material claims. — Patrick Dajos, Forbes.com, 23 Sep. 2026

Federal vehicle event-data rules offer a model by standardizing records and retrieval. — Jihun Joun, The Conversation, 17 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1643, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing retrieval

• beyond retrieval
• information retrieval

Rhymes for retrieval

• coeval
• medieval
• primaeval
• primeval
• upheaval
• evil
• weevil
• mediaeval

Kids Definition

retrieval

noun

re·​triev·​al ri-ˈtrē-vəl 

: an act or process of retrieving