Retrieval/rɪˈtriːvl/ Definition 1 of 4Pro Tip 1/3Physical Retrieval Used to describe the action of getting something back. After much effort, the retrieval of her keepsakes from the old house felt rewarding. Pro Tip 2/3Challenging Task Often implies a difficult effort to regain possession. The retrieval of ancient artifacts from the sunken ship required experienced divers. Pro Tip 3/3Used in Problems Common in contexts where there's an issue or complication involved. The retrieval operation became complicated due to the unexpected snowstorm.