Re-claim

To assert or obtain the right to something that was previously lost, taken away, or forgotten; to recover or retrieve something. This can involve regaining possession, restoring a degraded environment or resource to a usable state, or asserting a right or claim to something. It also implies an effort to bring something back to its former condition or status. This might include recovering valuable materials from waste, rehabilitating land damaged by mining, or re-asserting cultural traditions that have been suppressed. Reclaiming suggests a process of effort and active involvement to reverse a loss or negative impact.

Re-claim meaning with examples

• After the devastating flood, the town worked tirelessly to re-claim its lost properties. Residents began the arduous task of removing debris and repairing homes, hoping to rebuild their lives and community. Organizations helped re-claim damaged historical artifacts and records, helping to safeguard their collective heritage. The aim was to re-claim the normalcy of life and a place where people could live and build their lives.
• The conservation group aims to re-claim the polluted river by initiating a comprehensive cleanup project. Volunteers regularly removed plastic and garbage, aiming to restore the ecosystem's health. They will work to re-claim the natural habitats along the riverbanks, which will encourage wildlife to return. The goal is to re-claim the area's beauty and create a sustainable environment for future generations.
• The company struggled for years to re-claim its market share after being hit by several competitors. They invested heavily in new marketing campaigns to attract customers away from the opposition. It was crucial for the company to re-claim consumer confidence to compete with the industry leaders. Finally, the company succeeded to re-claim its position as a market leader.
• Indigenous communities are working to re-claim their traditional languages and cultural practices that were suppressed for generations. They are setting up language programs and supporting cultural events. These groups are struggling to re-claim their lost identities and pass them to younger generations. The cultural centers' aim is to re-claim the heritage of the past for generations to come.