Meaning & Definition of word "Retrieve"

Retrieve

/rɪˈtriːv/

verb:

  • 1. to get something back; to recover something that was lost or misplaced.
    • Example: The dog was trained to retrieve the ball after it was thrown.
  • 2. to access and bring back data from a computer system or database.
    • Example: The software can retrieve the information quickly from the cloud.
  • 3. to remember or recall information or memories.
    • Example: She struggled to retrieve the name of the actor from her memory.

Etymology

Middle English: from Old French 'retrouver' (to find again), from re- 'again' + trouver 'to find'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

retrieve memory:

to recall or bring back a memory

retrieve data:

to access and obtain data from a system

retrieve an item:

to go and get an item that has been left or lost

Related Words

recover:

to get back something that was lost or taken away

reclaim:

to recover something that was lost or taken

fetch:

to go for and then bring back

Slang Meanings of retrieve

Meaning: to get something back in a sneaky or clever way

Example Sentence: He managed to retrieve his phone from her bag when she wasn't looking.