reclamation

noun

rec·​la·​ma·​tion ˌre-klə-ˈmā-shən How to pronounce reclamation (audio)
Synonyms of reclamation
: the act or process of reclaiming: such as
a
: reformation, rehabilitation
b
: restoration to use : recovery

Synonyms of reclamation

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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
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.
James’ melodies seem to materialize and unspool, an unforced reclamation of the mystery that once permeated his writing. — Ryan Leas, Pitchfork, 28 Aug. 2026 The Sioux Falls regional water reclamation facility, which transports and treats wastewater from the city and surrounding communities is receiving $81 million in the budget. — Gabriel Brito, Sioux Falls Argus Leader, 28 Aug. 2026 John Hamilton, an assistant curator who helped install it, is careful about calling that reclamation. — Harry Bruinius, Christian Science Monitor, 24 Aug. 2026 Permitting and reclamation obligations can significantly affect both cost and timeline. — Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 21 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for reclamation

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1633, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of reclamation was in 1633

Rhymes for reclamation

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Browse Nearby Words

reclama
reclamation
reclamation disease
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Reclamation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reclamation. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

reclamation

noun
rec·​la·​ma·​tion ˌrek-lə-ˈmā-shən How to pronounce reclamation (audio)
: the act or process of reclaiming : the state of being reclaimed

Legal Definition

reclamation

noun
rec·​la·​ma·​tion ˌre-klə-ˈmā-shən How to pronounce reclamation (audio)
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)
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