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

The director of personal training at Chelsea Piers Fitness told Harper’s Bazaar that when used correctly, the plates can improve circulation and lymphatic flow, supporting recovery and reducing fluid buildup. — Samantha Agate, Charlotte Observer, 14 July 2026

According to Priya Jaisinghani, MD, an endocrinologist and obesity medicine specialist at NYU Langone Health, people commonly turn to peptides to lose weight, grow muscle, support exercise recovery, and enhance longevity. — Jenna Anderson, Health, 13 July 2026

Sports psychologists say recovery often turns a corner when people stop trying to reclaim the past and begin building a new future. — ABC News, 13 July 2026

The three- to four-month recovery time period shared by the Magic puts a potential return to basketball activities for Nelson at mid-October or mid-November, depending on how long is needed to heal properly. — Jason Beede, The Orlando Sentinel, 13 July 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