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

When a super agent fails, responsibility fragments across retrieval, reasoning, tooling and policy. —Praveen Satyanarayana, Forbes.com, 11 June 2026

Arrow retrieval and security You can’t very well practice archery without considering the retrieval and security of your arrow. —Bestreviews, Mercury News, 10 June 2026

So, in May 2024, her brother began the two-week egg retrieval process — a journey that would ultimately change both of their lives. —Tereza Shkurtaj, PEOPLE, 7 June 2026

The Jets’ power play scored 21 fewer goals this time around, failing to generate the motion, the number of attack pathways, the puck retrievals or the zone time of the previous year’s group. —Murat Ates, New York Times, 1 June 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