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 bureau previously announced a $50,000 reward for information leading to the recovery of Nancy Guthrie or the arrest of those involved in her abduction. —David Zimmermann, The Washington Examiner, 8 Feb. 2026

Earlier this week, the FBI announced that a $50,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the recovery of Nancy and or the arrest and conviction of anyone involved in her disappearance. —Daniel Kreps, Rolling Stone, 8 Feb. 2026

Parking RVs on public streets is not included in the recovery plan due to existing county and state parking regulations, as well as broader community concerns. —Zach Boetto, CBS News, 8 Feb. 2026

Following a typical recovery timeline, the veteran running back could be in line to return Week 1 next season. —Andrew Callahan, Boston Herald, 8 Feb. 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