The word ‘Reclaim’ (Verb) means to retrieve, recover, or take back something that was lost, taken, or neglected. In this guide, you’ll learn the full definition, synonyms, antonyms, etymology, and real-life examples of how to use ‘Reclaim’ correctly in sentences.
Reclaim Explained in Depth
A complete and detailed guide to the word Reclaim, including meaning, definition, examples, etymology, synonyms, and antonyms.
Meanings of Reclaim
Reclaim means to get something back that was lost, taken away, or abandoned. It can also mean to restore land, rights, or status to a former condition or to make something useful again.
For example, a farmer might reclaim land from a swamp to make it usable for crops.
Definition
Reclaim is a verb to retrieve, recover, or take back something that belongs to you or that was once yours. It can also mean to restore something to a better state or to make land suitable for cultivation or use.
The word often implies effort and action to regain control or possession over something.
Etymology
- The word reclaim comes from the Latin reclamare, meaning “to call out against” or “to protest.”
- It combines the prefix re- meaning “again” and clamare meaning “to shout.”
- Over time, the meaning shifted to include “calling back” or “taking back” something.
Example Sentences
- The company hopes to reclaim its position as the market leader.
- After years of neglect, the community worked to reclaim the abandoned park.
- She managed to reclaim her lost belongings from the storage facility.
Reclaim Synonyms
- Recover
- Retrieve
- Regain
- Recoup
- Restore
- Take back
- Rescue
- Redeem
- Salvage
Reclaim Antonyms
- Lose
- Forfeit
- Surrender
- Abandon
- Relinquish
- Give up
- Discard
- Waste
FAQs about Reclaim
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the word “Reclaim”
1. What does “reclaim” mean?
“Reclaim” means to get something back that was lost, taken, or abandoned, or to restore something to a better or usable state.
2. Can “reclaim” be used for land?
Yes, “reclaim” often refers to making land usable again, such as draining swamps or restoring polluted areas for farming or building.
3. Is “reclaim” always about physical things?
No, it can also refer to abstract things like rights, reputation, or status.