recovery

noun

re·​cov·​ery ri-ˈkə-və-rē 

-ˈkəv-rē

plural recoveries

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

Synonyms of recovery

• reclamation

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

The procedure could shorten Snell’s recovery time by a month, compared to a more traditional arthroscopic procedure. —Maddie Lee, Los Angeles Times, 19 May 2026

Without care from her medical team in the United States, the burden of her daughter’s recovery has fallen solely on the mother, who once was a rehab technician and a certified nursing assistant. —Nicole Acevedo, NBC news, 18 May 2026

Cryotherapy chambers expose the body to extreme sub-zero temperatures for two to three minutes, while cold plunges rely on ice water for similar effects on muscle recovery, inflammation and mood. —Hanna Wickes, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 18 May 2026

Furthermore, stars are getting injured during the postseason more frequently than prior eras of NBA history, so extra recovery time is crucial. —Lev Akabas, Sportico.com, 18 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing recovery

• data recovery
• enhanced recovery
• make a complete/full recovery
• on the road to recovery
• recovery room
• road to recovery
• speedy recovery
• spontaneous recovery

Rhymes for recovery

• rediscovery

Kids Definition

recovery

noun

re·​cov·​ery ri-ˈkəv-(ə-)rē 

plural recoveries

: the act or process or an instance of recovering

Medical Definition

recovery

noun

re·​cov·​ery ri-ˈkəv-(ə-)rē 

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 

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