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

Brandt Clarke initiated the sequence with a puck retrieval, passing to Perry, whose outlet went to Kempe. —Andrew Knoll, Daily News, 21 Jan. 2026

After all the injections, the hormones, the egg retrieval, the creation of only one miracle embryo in the most scientific way possible. —Becca Longmire, PEOPLE, 20 Jan. 2026

Masked gunmen on motorcycles shot into the air outside polling centers, and government personnel started prohibiting the retrieval of voting tallies. —Helena Carpio, Time, 16 Jan. 2026

Grandpa’s early research necessitated the retrieval of blood samples from genetically unique populations all over the world. —Emilie G.c. Thompson, STAT, 15 Jan. 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
• primeval
• upheaval
• evil
• weevil

Kids Definition

retrieval

noun

re·​triev·​al ri-ˈtrē-vəl 

: an act or process of retrieving