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Definition of drawback

drawback

/ˈdrɔː.bæk/
draw · back
Plural:drawbacks
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drawback Lexical Profile

drawback Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A feature, condition, or circumstance that makes something less acceptable, desirable, or effective; a disadvantage or hindrance.

Example

"The main drawback of living in the city center is the constant traffic noise."

2

A refund of customs duties or excise taxes previously paid on imported goods when those goods are subsequently exported or used in the manufacture of exported products.

Example

"The manufacturer applied for a customs drawback after exporting the finished garments overseas."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for drawback

• Nearby Words

draughtsperson
drava
draw
drawback
drawbridge
drawcord
drawdown

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the early 18th century as a noun compound from the phrasal verb 'draw back,' originally referring to a hindrance that pulls someone or something back from progress, and concurrently to customs duties refunded upon the re-exportation of imported goods.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Drawback. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 1, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/drawback
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