remediation

American  

[ri-mee-dee-ey-shuhn] / rɪˌmi diˈeɪ ʃən /

noun

1. the correction of something bad or defective.

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remediation British  

/ rɪˌmiːdɪˈeɪʃən /

noun

1. the action of remedying something, esp the reversal or stopping of damage to the environment

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Usage

What does remediation mean? Remediation is the act of remedying or correcting something that has been corrupted or that is deficient. Remediation has two main usages. Environmental remediation is the removal of pollutants or the reversal of other environmental damage, especially in a particular location, to attempt to return it to its natural state. In education, remediation refers to instruction intended to fill gaps in a student’s core education. Example: After years of legal battles, the chemical company finally agreed to begin remediation at the site of the former factory by removing toxins from the surrounding soil.

Etymology

Origin of remediation

First recorded in 1790–1800; from Latin remediātiōn-, stem of remediātiō “act or process of healing,” equivalent to remediāt-, past participle stem of remediāre “to treat (successfully), cure” + -ion, noun suffix; see origin at remedy, -ation

Explanation

Remediation has to do with righting a wrong or correcting a fault. Students who can't read well or do their multiplication tables might need remediation to bring them up to speed. Remediation is a word for fixing things that aren't right. You often hear about criminals needing rehabilitation, which is close to remediation: after remediation, you're a better or smarter person. Students who get to college but aren't quite ready for college work need remediation. In all forms of remediation, the idea is you're going to help people get better in some way.

Example Sentences

Citigroup, under CEO Jane Fraser, aims to transition from a remediation strategy to one focused on growth and market share.

From Barron's • May 6, 2026

When a notice is submitted, the DMV will review the incident, conduct any necessary investigation and determine what remediation, if any, is required, he said.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

DC Water has estimated costs of repairs and environmental remediation at $22 million.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 20, 2026

O'Donovan said in February he was concerned the polymer seal would not stop deep‑seated fires and could delay ecological surveys needed for his planning application and site remediation.

From BBC • Mar. 26, 2026

The company’s remediation plan includes updated training on disclosure controls, improved policies and procedures for information sharing, expanded responsibilities for the company’s Disclosure Committee, and an enhanced reporting hotline.

From Barron's • Feb. 17, 2026