retrieval

noun

re·​triev·​al ri-ˈtrē-vəl How to pronounce retrieval (audio)
1
: an act or process of retrieving
2
: possibility of being retrieved or of recovering
beyond retrieval

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Two, how is a glass jar of fig jam supposed to plummet from its shelf without cracking disastrously before retrieval? Sam Stone, Bon Appetit Magazine, 31 Oct. 2025 Since women were akin to territory, bringing back abductees from the enemy country symbolized a retrieval of it. JSTOR Daily, 30 Oct. 2025 The system’s lightweight, non-metallic components pose negligible risk to future well interventions, as they can be left safely in the toe of the well or pushed to the bottom if retrieval is unnecessary. Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 28 Oct. 2025 Testing complete, Kat collects my Actiwatch for data retrieval and leaves me alone to settle in. Rowan Jacobsen, Harpers Magazine, 24 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for retrieval

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1643, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of retrieval was circa 1643

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Cite this Entry

“Retrieval.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/retrieval. Accessed 7 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

retrieval

noun
re·​triev·​al ri-ˈtrē-vəl How to pronounce retrieval (audio)
: an act or process of retrieving

More from Merriam-Webster on retrieval

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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