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Definition of retract

retract

/rɪˈtrækt/
re · tract
Adjective:retractable
•
Past Simple:retracted
•
Past Participle:retracted
•
Present Participle:retracting
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retract Lexical Profile

retract Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To formally withdraw or disavow a statement, accusation, promise, or offer as untrue, unjustified, or no longer valid.

Example

"The scientific journal had to retract the paper after independent researchers discovered serious flaws in the experimental data."

2

To draw or be drawn back or inward (such as an animal's claws, a mechanical part, or aircraft landing gear).

Example

"Shortly after liftoff, the pilot flipped a switch to retract the airplane's landing gear."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for retract

• Nearby Words

retrace
retraceable
retrack
retract
retractable
retraction
retrain

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 14th century from Old French 'retracter' or directly from Latin 'retractare', meaning 'to draw back, reconsider, or revoke', the frequentative form of 'retrahere' (from 're-', 'back', and 'trahere', 'to draw or pull').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Retract. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/retract
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