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retrieval

noun re·triev·al \ ri-ˈtrē-vəl \
|Updated on: 15 Jun 2018

Definition of retrieval

1 : an act or process of retrieving
2 : possibility of being retrieved or of recovering
  • beyond retrieval

See retrieval defined for English-language learners

See retrieval defined for kids

Examples of retrieval in a Sentence

  1. the retrieval of stolen goods

  2. The system allows quick storage and retrieval of data.

Recent Examples of retrieval from the Web

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'retrieval.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of retrieval

circa 1643

in the meaning defined at sense 1

See Words from the same year
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retrieval Synonyms

Synonyms

recapture, reclamation, recoupment, recovery, repossession;

Near Antonyms

loss, misplacement;

Related Words

recruitment, replenishment;

redemption, rescue;

Phrases Related to RETRIEVAL

Related Phrases

RETRIEVAL Defined for English Language Learners

retrieval

noun

Definition of retrieval for English Language Learners

  • : the act or process of getting and bringing back something : the act or process of retrieving something

Learn More about retrieval

  1. See words that rhyme with retrieval Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for retrieval Spanish Central: Translation of retrieval Nglish: Translation of retrieval for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of retrieval for Arabic speakers

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