retrieval

noun

re·​triev·​al ri-ˈtrē-vəl How to pronounce retrieval (audio)
1
: an act or process of retrieving
2
: possibility of being retrieved or of recovering
beyond retrieval

Examples of retrieval in a Sentence

the retrieval of stolen goods The system allows quick storage and retrieval of data.
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.
These architectures enable efficient storage and retrieval of vast datasets. Abdul Muqtadir Mohammed Zubair, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024 There’s the consultation, medication, blood tests and screening, as well as the actual egg retrieval and freezing cycle or, more likely, several cycles. Marina Gerner, WIRED, 5 Oct. 2024 In other rare cases, egg retrieval procedures can result in infections, bleeding, or damage to organs. Wendy Wisner, Health, 16 Sep. 2024 However, Democrats are more likely to favor automatic voter registration with the retrieval of a driver’s license or same-day registration, pollsters noted. Joanne Haner, The Hill, 1 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for retrieval 

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1643, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of retrieval was circa 1643

Dictionary Entries Near retrieval

Cite this Entry

“Retrieval.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/retrieval. Accessed 29 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

retrieval

noun
re·​triev·​al ri-ˈtrē-vəl How to pronounce retrieval (audio)
: an act or process of retrieving

More from Merriam-Webster on retrieval

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!