# reclaiming

/ɹiˈkɫeɪmɪŋ/ (US) · /ɹɪklˈeɪmɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/reclaiming
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

to take back something that was lost, stolen, or taken away. It can also mean making land useful again, like turning an old factory site into a park.

For teachers: to recover possession of something previously lost or surrendered; to bring uncultivated or waste land into a state of productivity. Often implies a restoration of rights or utility.

## Examples

- The city is reclaiming the old industrial area to build a park.
- After years of neglect, the local community is reclaiming the abandoned garden to grow fresh vegetables for the neighborhood.
- The indigenous group spent decades in court reclaiming their ancestral lands, eventually securing a landmark ruling that recognized their historical and legal rights to the territory.

## Usage notes

- The verb is transitive and requires a direct object.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.