Meaning & Definition of word "Retrieval"

Retrieval

/rɪˈtriː.vəl/

noun:

  • 1. the act or process of obtaining something from a repository or storage.
    • Example: The retrieval of historical documents is crucial for research.
  • 2. the process of getting information out of memory or an information system.
    • Example: The retrieval of data from the database was completed successfully.
  • 3. the recovery of something that is lost or missing.
    • Example: They performed a retrieval operation to find the missing artifacts.

Etymology

Derived from the Middle English term 'retrieval', from the verb 'retrieve'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

data retrieval:

The process of obtaining data from a storage system.

memory retrieval:

The act of recalling information stored in the brain.

information retrieval:

The activity of obtaining information system resources that are relevant to an information need.

Related Words

retrieve:

To get or bring something back from a place.

reclaim:

To recover something that has been lost or taken away.

recovery:

A return to a normal state after a loss or setback.

Slang Meanings of retrieval

Meaning: Get back

Example Sentence: I need to get back that book I lent you.

Meaning: Dig up

Example Sentence: He managed to dig up some old photos from the archive.