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 first-stage booster is making its sixth trip to space and will attempt a recovery landing at Landing Zone 40 adjacent the launch pad. —Richard Tribou, The Orlando Sentinel, 12 May 2026

Her giving and open personality allowed a viable recovery from the two serious injuries. —Patrick Z. McGavin, Chicago Tribune, 12 May 2026

The 200-acre complex just outside Atlanta will house all 27 national teams and features 17 outdoor fields, two indoor pitches, a high-performance gym, recovery centers and coaching education spaces designed to centralize player development, sports science and coach training under one roof. —Melanie Anzidei, New York Times, 12 May 2026

Lifting too much without adequate rest and recovery can also lead to overtraining and injury. —Jenessa Connor, Health, 11 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