retrieval

noun

re·​triev·​al ri-ˈtrē-vəl How to pronounce retrieval (audio)
1
: an act or process of retrieving
2
: possibility of being retrieved or of recovering
beyond retrieval

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
His work in his own end, even though the results haven’t quite followed, shows the tools of an elite defensive defenseman, with positioning, retrievals and exits being particular strong points. The Athletic Nhl, New York Times, 29 Sep. 2025 Much of this is due to rocket retrieval and reusability development, which has led to a significant drop in the cost of sending payloads to space. Matthew S Williams, Interesting Engineering, 25 Sep. 2025 The series begins amid a retrieval. Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 24 Sep. 2025 Overlooking Data Latency Much like a space mission delayed by slow telemetry, apps can stall when data retrieval or processing lags. Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 19 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for retrieval

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1643, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of retrieval was circa 1643

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Cite this Entry

“Retrieval.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/retrieval. Accessed 30 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

retrieval

noun
re·​triev·​al ri-ˈtrē-vəl How to pronounce retrieval (audio)
: an act or process of retrieving

More from Merriam-Webster on retrieval

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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