information retrieval

noun

1. the systematic storage and recovery of data, as from a file, card catalog, or the memory bank of a computer. IR

information retrieval

noun

1. computing the process of recovering specific information from stored data

Word History and Origins

Origin of information retrieval¹

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

A character trying to get to the bottom of her neighbor’s disappearance at the Ministry’s records office is instructed to obtain a form from Information Adjustments and bring it to Information Retrieval, which subject her to an endless runaround.

From Los Angeles Times

Another concern was a deeper one — that ceding information retrieval to chatbots was degrading the serendipity of human search for knowledge, literacy about what we see online, and the value of connecting in online forums with other people who are going through the same thing.

From Seattle Times

Yet another challenge is finding international agreement on ethics and guidelines, said Christian Mattmann, director of the Information Retrieval & Data Science group at the University of Southern California.

From Seattle Times

It could also potentially work for information retrieval — where facts can be validated to ensure they are correct.

From Seattle Times

A key issue is that those who co-operate with a new information retrieval body can be granted immunity from prosecution.

From BBC