recovery

noun

re·​cov·​ery ri-ˈkə-və-rē How to pronounce recovery (audio)
-ˈkəv-rē
plural recoveries
Synonyms of recovery
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

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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
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.
The mayor also asked New Yorkers to keep the surviving victim in their thoughts and wish them a full recovery. — Madison E. Goldberg, PEOPLE, 1 Sep. 2026 Let’s hope the upcoming Labor Day weekend is free from water rescues or recoveries. — Charles Selle, Chicago Tribune, 31 Aug. 2026 The recent breakout above the 200-day MA, not shown on the monthly chart, adds confidence that the recovery can extend in the coming months. — Katie Stockton, CNBC, 31 Aug. 2026 That can mean choosing a better location for construction, alternate routes, backup power, improved early warning and financial tools such as insurance to speed recovery, Narasimhan said. — Victoria Milko, Fortune, 31 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for recovery

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of recovery was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing recovery

Rhymes for recovery

See All Rhymes for recovery

Browse Nearby Words

recoveror
recovery
recovery furnace
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Cite this Entry

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

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Kids Definition

recovery

noun
re·​cov·​ery ri-ˈkəv-(ə-)rē How to pronounce recovery (audio)
plural recoveries
: the act or process or an instance of recovering

Medical Definition

recovery

noun
re·​cov·​ery ri-ˈkəv-(ə-)rē How to pronounce recovery (audio)
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 How to pronounce recovery (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on recovery

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about recovery

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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