recapture

[ree-kap-cher]

verb (used with object)

recaptured, recapturing 

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 Word Forms

• recapturable adjective
• unrecaptured adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of recapture¹

First recorded in 1745–55; re- + capture

Example Sentences

Insurers have already designed 2026 plans assuming the subsidies end, making it difficult to adjust premiums or recapture members even if an extension occurs.

Read more on Barron's

He said the hall had "recaptured its beauty and dignity" and would inspire visitors, host events and support the health and recovery of patients and staff.

Read more on BBC

In 2023, Azerbaijan recaptured the disputed region, and virtually the entire Armenian population fled their homes.

Read more on BBC

Aiming to “recapture that initial wonderment and whimsy,” he’s been going back for more than 10 years, always looking for “some kind of new and out-of-my-comfort-zone mischief.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The finale’s script has a lot of lines worthy of stitching on throw pillows, but one of my favorites is when Joe apologizes to Wendy for helping his former military buddies get them recaptured.

Read more on Salon

Related Words

• reclaim 
• recover 
• retake 
• take back