Recovery

Definition

Recovery primarily refers to the process of returning to a normal state of health, mind, or strength. It can also mean the action or process of regaining possession or control of something stolen or lost.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /rɪˈkʌvəri/
• Respelling: ri-KUHV-uh-ree (with "ri" as in "rid," "KUHV" as in "shove," and "uh-ree" as in "see")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /rɪˈkʌvəri/
• Respelling: ri-KUHV-uh-ree (similar to American English, with "ri" as in "rid," "KUHV" as in "shove," and "uh-ree" as in "see")

In both dialects, "recovery" is pronounced with the stress on the second syllable, "KUHV." The pronunciation is consistent across both American and British English, clearly articulating each component of the word with emphasis on the "KUHV" syllable.

Etymology

From Old French "recovrer", from Latin "recuperare" meaning "to regain, get back".

Derivatives

• Recoverable
• Recoverer
• Recovering
• Recovered
• Non-recovery

Synonyms

• Retrieval
• Recuperation
• Restoration

Antonyms

• Decline
• Deterioration
• Relapse

Usage

"Recovery" is most commonly used in medical contexts to refer to the process of healing or regaining health. It can also be used in data and tech contexts, signifying the retrieval of lost or compromised data, or in financial contexts to indicate the improvement of an economy.

Related Terms

• Rehab
• Healing
• Renewal
• Restoration
• Revival

Detailed Definition

Noun

• The process of becoming well again after an illness or injury.
• Example: The patient is on the path to full recovery after a major surgery.

• The return to a normal state of health, mind, or strength.
• Example: Her recovery after the trauma was supported by therapy and counseling.

• The action or process of gaining possession or control of something that was lost or stolen.
• Example: The recovery of the stolen artifacts was a significant achievement for the police department.

• An improvement in an economy, especially after a period of stagnation or recession.
• Example: Analysts are hopeful for a swift economic recovery after the pandemic.

• The action or process of retrieving lost or deleted data.
• Example: We hired a specialist for the recovery of the compromised data.