retrieval

noun

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

Synonyms of retrieval

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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.
Complicating the retrieval is the position of Morup’s body, and the risk that it could be damaged or start decomposing on the way down. — Helen Regan, CNN Money, 10 Oct. 2026 Prompts, private data, retrieval, fine-tuning, policies and human controls can change their outputs. — Swati Deepak Kumar, Forbes.com, 6 Oct. 2026 Brown went through several rounds of egg retrievals, each requiring injections, appointments, ultrasounds and blood work. — Olivia Laborde, AJC.com, 5 Oct. 2026 By filling in those gaps at the time of retrieval with the most likely possibility, your memory system can actually be quicker and be more flexible and work online in a timely manner. — Allison Parshall, Scientific American, 3 Oct. 2026 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

Phrases Containing retrieval

Rhymes for retrieval

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Browse Nearby Words

retrievable
retrieval
retrieve
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Cite this Entry

“Retrieval.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/retrieval. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

retrieval

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