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Definition of protraction
protraction
/pɹoʊˈtɹæk.ʃən/
pro · trac · tion
Plural:protractions
•Adjective:protractive
protraction Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
12
Tier
2
Usage
Rare
Syllables
3
protraction Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• noun
1
The action of prolonging something or the state of being prolonged in time; extension or delay.
Example
"The unnecessary protraction of the peace negotiations frustrated diplomats on both sides."
2
In anatomy, the forward movement or extension of an anatomical part, such as the shoulder girdle or mandible, away from the midline or dorsal plane of the body.
Example
"Physical therapists often prescribe exercises that focus on scapular protraction to improve shoulder stability."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for protraction Antonyms
View all antonyms for protraction• Rhymes for protraction
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the late Middle English period from Late Latin protractio, derived from the verb protrahere ('to draw forth' or 'to prolong'), combining pro- ('forward') and trahere ('to draw or pull').
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Protraction. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/protraction