reclamation

noun

rec·​la·​ma·​tion ˌre-klə-ˈmā-shən 

: the act or process of reclaiming: such as

a

: reformation, rehabilitation

b

: restoration to use : recovery

Synonyms

• recapture
• recoupment
• recovery
• repossession
• retrieval

Examples of reclamation in a Sentence

pumped water out of the field as part of the land reclamation program designed to provide farmers with more farmland

Recent Examples on the Web

Or maybe the Avalanche could bet on their own reclamation project in Novak, whose transition game has completely fallen flat this season after being such a standout over the last two seasons. —Shayna Goldman, The Athletic, 25 Feb. 2025

From the enslaved women who set the tables for others to the moguls of today, the story of Black women in home and lifestyle is not one of erasure but of relentless reclamation. —Essence, 11 Feb. 2025

The visit to Black Mesa and Kayenta mines is an ongoing effort for the council to oversee the reclamation process, including reviewing compliance standards and exploring opportunities for economic development. —Arlyssa D. Becenti, The Arizona Republic, 6 Dec. 2024

Credit to coach Fred Hoiberg, who built an unconventional roster full of unique players, including a few reclamation projects. —Jim Root, The Athletic, 12 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

French réclamation, from Latin reclamation-, reclamatio, from reclamare

First Known Use

1633, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for reclamation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

reclamation

noun

rec·​la·​ma·​tion ˌrek-lə-ˈmā-shən 

: the act or process of reclaiming : the state of being reclaimed

Legal Definition

reclamation

noun

rec·​la·​ma·​tion ˌre-klə-ˈmā-shən 

1

: the act or process of reclaiming

the reclamation of goods delivered to an insolvent buyer

2

: a right to reclaim (as under commercial law)