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

Kim is working the floor every night, touching each table with a hello or a smile or a friendly retrieval of a fallen napkin. — Helen Rosner, New Yorker, 26 July 2026

This discipline, encompassing system prompts, tool integration, retrieval systems, safety mechanisms, and human oversight, is especially critical for AI providing mental health guidance. — Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 25 July 2026

The researchers said these trials demonstrated that QuadBoat could follow targets on the water and carry out retrieval tasks relevant to rescue operations. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 24 July 2026

The pods, each about the size of a dishwasher unit, will loiter there for retrieval by the MRV’s robotic arms. — Stephen Clark, ArsTechnica, 24 July 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