reclamation

/rekləˈmeɪʃɪn/

/rekləˈmeɪʃən/

Other forms: reclamations

Reclamation is the act of returning something to a former, better state. Land reclamation might involve razing a strip mall and planting crops.

Reclamation is the noun form of the verb to reclaim. Most people involved in reclamation want to reclaim something out of a sense of moral or environmental duty. Since re- means "again," it makes sense that a reclamation involves restoring something to its former glory, especially something that has gone to the dogs. Anything that's fallen on hard times is a good candidate for reclamation.

Definitions of reclamation

1. noun

   rescuing from error and returning to a rightful course
   “the reclamation of delinquent children”

   synonyms: reformation

   type of:

   deliverance, delivery, rescue, saving

   recovery or preservation from loss or danger
2. noun

   the conversion of wasteland into land suitable for use of habitation or cultivation
   synonyms: rehabilitation, renewal

   types:

   re-afforestation, reforestation

   the restoration (replanting) of a forest that had been reduced by fire or cutting

   urban renewal

   the clearing and rebuilding and redevelopment of urban slums

   type of:

   restoration

   the act of restoring something or someone to a satisfactory state
3. noun

   the recovery of useful substances from waste products
   type of:

   recovery, retrieval

   the act of regaining or saving something lost (or in danger of becoming lost)