recovery

noun

re·​cov·​ery ri-ˈkə-və-rē How to pronounce recovery (audio)
-ˈkəv-rē
plural recoveries
Synonyms of recoverynext
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

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
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.
The concept shown at the event features large front and rear branding, a snorkel, 285/70 R17 all-terrain tires, a tub rack with recovery tracks, and matte gray paint. Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 23 Feb. 2026 Other technologies that could be phased out include waste heat recovery systems that pull heat from the car’s engine to the interior, solar reflective surface coating and high efficacy exterior lights. Julian Torres, CNN Money, 22 Feb. 2026 Rescuers located five additional victims that night, but worsening weather and avalanche danger forced crews to suspend recovery operations until mitigation efforts could be completed. Michael McGough, Sacbee.com, 22 Feb. 2026 But the unstable snowpack, high winds and whiteout conditions made search-and-recovery efforts too perilous, prompting first responders to leave behind the bodies of deceased skiers and suspend operations on Wednesday and Thursday. Tony Briscoe, Los Angeles Times, 22 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for recovery

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of recovery was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Recovery.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/recovery. Accessed 25 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

recovery

noun
re·​cov·​ery ri-ˈkəv-(ə-)rē How to pronounce recovery (audio)
plural recoveries
: the act or process or an instance of recovering

Medical Definition

recovery

noun
re·​cov·​ery ri-ˈkəv-(ə-)rē How to pronounce recovery (audio)
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 How to pronounce recovery (audio)
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

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