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

After magnesium recovery, the water could proceed through reverse-osmosis desalination as usual, producing fresh water and leaving behind highly concentrated brine. — New Atlas, 27 July 2026

That reflation boost appears wobbly, as much of the price recovery was driven by surging global energy costs, while domestic demand lags, economists say. — Anniek Bao, CNBC, 27 July 2026

In Kansas City, Patrick Mahomes has had a smooth recovery from surgery to repair the torn ACL and LCL in his left knee, and coach Andy Reid told reporters Friday that he’s been cleared to participate in training camp. — Mike Jones, New York Times, 27 July 2026

Add up the lost asset, the unrealized revenue, the broken contract and the cost of recovery. — Nilton Bernini, Forbes.com, 27 July 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