recapture

[ ree-kap-cher ]

verb (used with object)

, re·cap·tured, re·cap·tur·ing.

1. to capture again; recover by capture; retake.
2. (of a government) to take by recapture.
3. to recollect or reexperience (something past).

noun

1. the recovery or retaking by capture.
2. the taking by the government of a fixed part of all earnings in excess of a certain percentage of property value, as in the case of a railroad.
3. International Law. the lawful reacquisition of a former possession.
4. the state or fact of being recaptured.

recapture

/ riːˈkæptʃə /

verb

1. to capture or take again
2. to recover, renew, or repeat (a lost or former ability, sensation, etc)

   she soon recaptured her high spirits

3. (of the government) to take lawfully (a proportion of the profits of a public-service undertaking)

noun

1. the act of recapturing or fact of being recaptured
2. the seizure by the government of a proportion of the profits of a public-service undertaking

Other Words From

• re·captur·a·ble adjective
• unre·captured adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of recapture¹

First recorded in 1745–55; re- + capture

Example Sentences

They had feared this outcome ever since this time four years ago, when Trump lost his bid for reelection, loudly claimed that the race was rigged, and started running again to recapture his throne.

From Slate

His faster-than-expected recovery gave the Rams confidence that White would recapture his All-Pro form.

From Los Angeles Times

Newly launched Run For Something recruited young Democrats and progressives to recapture power in the 2018 midterms.

From Slate

“What are you going to do to protect the health of the people? Children’s lungs are growing now. This is not something you can recapture.”

From Los Angeles Times

However, Rashford would need to recapture those 2022-23 levels, with his progressive ball carry figures only at 16 this season.

From BBC

Related Words

• reclaim
• recover
• retake
• take back