retrievable

Retrievable is an adjective describing something that can be retrieved—returned or recovered—from a storage place, memory, or database. The term emphasizes the possibility and ease of access, often in a practical sense rather than merely theoretical.

In computing and information management, retrievability refers to how readily data, documents, or records can be located and accessed using search tools, indexing, and metadata. Effective retrievability depends on data organization, standardized schemas, controlled vocabularies, and robust search interfaces. Practices such as cataloging, tagging, and maintaining clear lineage improve retrievability and reduce time-to-information.

In cognitive psychology, retrievability concerns how easily a memory or learned information can be recalled. Retrieval cues, encoding specificity, and forgetting curves influence retrievability. The concept underpins techniques for studying memory and for designing educational tools and tests.

In environmental science and waste management, retrievability describes whether disposed materials, such as radioactive waste or hazardous waste, can be retrieved in the future. Repositories may be designed to be retrievable for monitoring and remediation, or to offer permanent isolation if retrieval is not anticipated. Policy frameworks weigh retrievability against risks and long-term stability.

In everyday use, objects like tools, keys, or documents may be described as retrievable when they are easy to locate and access, as opposed to items that are lost, buried, or sealed beyond reach.