Meaning & Definition of word "Reclaim"
Reclaim
/rɪˈkleɪm/
verb:
- 1. to retrieve or recover something that was lost.
- Example: The organization aims to reclaim the wetlands that were drained for agriculture.
- 2. to bring back into a usable condition; to restore.
- Example: They worked to reclaim the abandoned buildings in the city.
- 3. to assert a right to something; to demand the return of.
- Example: She plans to reclaim her inheritance from the estate.
- 4. to recycle or reuse materials.
- Example: The factory's goal is to reclaim and reuse 90% of its waste.
- 5. to make (land) usable again after disturbance.
- Example: The mining company is required to reclaim the land after operations have ceased.
Etymology
●From Old French 'reclamer', from Latin 'reclamare', meaning to call back.
Common Phrases and Expressions
reclaim one's time:
To take back control over how one's time is spent.
reclaim the streets:
To take back public spaces for community use or safety.
reclaim your power:
To regain control over one's own life or situation.
Related Words
recover:
To get back something lost or taken.
redeem:
To recover ownership of something in exchange for payment.
Slang Meanings of reclaim
Meaning: To take back one's identity or individuality.
● Example Sentence: After years of conformity, he decided to reclaim his unique style.
Meaning: To regain popularity or relevance.
● Example Sentence: The band is trying to reclaim their fame with a new album.