What does "recycling" mean?

1. (the process) the activity of sorting and collecting waste like paper, glass, and plastic to make new things. 2. (the materials) the items that you have collected to be recycled.

How do you use "recycling"?

Often used as an uncountable noun when referring to the general practice. Commonly used with the definite article 'the' to refer to a specific batch of items.

recycling

US //ɹiˈsaɪkəɫɪŋ// UK //ɹɪsˈaɪklɪŋ// re·cy·cling

1 the process (n.)
A2 Elementary

the activity of sorting and collecting waste like paper, glass, and plastic to make new things.

the industrial or domestic process of treating waste materials for reuse in manufacturing.

Example

Our city has a great system for recycling plastic bottles and old newspapers.

Example

The local government invested in advanced sorting technology to improve the efficiency of the city's recycling programme.

Usage

Often used as an uncountable noun when referring to the general practice.
- reprocessing
- reclamation
- disposal
- waste
2 the materials (n.)
B1 Intermediate

the items that you have collected to be recycled.

the physical materials or waste products that have been separated for the purpose of being recycled.

Example

Don't forget to take the recycling out to the bin on Tuesday morning.

Example

The facility rejected the entire load because the recycling was contaminated with non-recyclable food waste.

Usage

Commonly used with the definite article 'the' to refer to a specific batch of items.
- waste
- scrap
- trash
- garbage

Last updated June 20, 2026